Assignment: Policy Analysis
This assignment requires you to identify a social problem, select a policy that addresses that particular social problem, and thoroughly analyze the policy.
Your final product should be a 5 to 7 pages double spaced APA formatted paper that addresses each of the questions below. If you do not think a question applies, please explain why. You are encouraged to thoroughly research your chosen policy and to cite sources as appropriate. You will need to cite at least 6 reputable sources.
Part One: Identification and Description of the Social Problem
I. Identify a social problem that you would like to focus on and address the following points.
• Describe the problem you have chosen in a sentence or two.
• Why do you think this it is a social problem?
Part Two: Identification and Description of a Policy that Addresses the Social Problem
1. What is the title of the policy?
2. What is the legislative history of the policy?
• When did the policy originate and how (law, court decision, executive order, etc.)?
• How has the original policy changed over time (if at all)?
3. Describe the policy including as relevant:
• How is the policy intended to work?
• How will it address the social problem it was intended to address?
• What types of resources or opportunities is the policy expected to provide (cash, job training, in-kind services and so on)?
• Who will be covered by the policy and what are the criteria for inclusion?
4. Who will administer the policy - i.e. what is the role of the private sector as well as local, state and federal governments in the development and implementation of the policy?
• Who has responsibility for overseeing, evaluating and coordinating the policy?
• Is there an evaluation process present?