SYM4065

Issues in public policy

Chris Chamberlain

12 points -2 hours per week -First semester -Clayton

Objectives Students in this subject will have the opportunity to gain an in-depth knowledge of a particular area of public policy; understand how sociological theories and research techniques can be used to inform and evaluate policy decisions and choices; think critically about the role of sociologists and other experts in the policy-making process; to improve their written and oral skills in presenting and evaluating ideas in a policy context.

Synopsis This subject will focus on a particular policy area to illustrate the role of sociological theory and research in the formulation of public policy. In 1999, the subject will focus on the sociology of housing and homelessness, with particular reference to Australia and the United States since 1960. The subject will use sociological theories and concepts to help clarify policy issues, and to think about the broader context in which policy decisions are made. It will also examine the role of research in the formulation and evaluation of public policy.

Assessment Two seminar presentations (2000 words each): 40% -Research paper (5000 words): 60%

Recommended texts

Chamberlain C and MacKenzie D Youth homelessness: Early intervention and prevention ACEE, 1998
Davis G and others Public policy in Australia 2nd edn, Allen and Unwin, 1993
Hoch C and Slayton R New homeless and old: Community and the Skid Row Hotel Temple U P, 1989
House of Representatives Report on aspects of youth homelessness AGPS, 1995
Jencks C The homeless Harvard U P, 1994
Maher C and Burke T Informed decision making: The use of secondary data sources in policy studies Longman Cheshire, 1991
Neil C and Fopp R Homelessness in Australia: Causes and consequences CSIRO, 1992
Richards L Nobody's home: Dreams and realities in a new suburb OUP, 1990
Saunders P A nation of home owners Unwin Hyman, 1990
Watson S (with H Austerberry) Housing and homelessness: A feminist perspective Routledge and Kegan Paul, 1986

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