A policy paper is a critical analysis of an important societal issue or problem that involves the research and development of a defensible plan - a policy proposal for solving the problem by formulating workable strategies for implement a new plan.
After reading Walker's book, Sense and Nonsense you are to write a 5 page, double spaced abbreviated policy proposal on a criminal justice issue/problem of your choosing. Your paper should follow the following structure:
Title of your Policy Paper
Statement of the Problem
What is the specific problem - define it
Provide the reader with background information about the social problem
What are the historical background issues related to this problem
Why is it an important issue that needs to be addressed
What evidence is there that suggest a change in policy is needed
What are the major causes of the problem
Current Policy
What are the current policies/programs
Why haven't those policies/programs solved, or alleviated the problem(s)
What are the major flaws or limitations of the current policy
Policy Recommendations/Action Plan
(In this section of your paper formulate an effective policy proposal that is practical and feasible - tell us why your proposal will work)
What are your specific policy recommendations
How does your policy solve the problem, better than current policies
What research/evidence can you offer that your proposal will work
What are the most critical obstacles to implementing your proposal - i.e., financial, ethical, or political
Why might policy makers oppose or embrace your proposal