PLT3270

Ministers, Minders and Bureaucrats ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Jennifer Curtin

Offered:
Not offered in 2006.

Synopsis: The unit looks at policy as a concept and analyses the complexities involved in the formulation and implementation of public policy at the federal and state level. Particular attention will be paid to the role of key players and the influence these individuals, groups and institutions can have on the policy making process in Australia. Ideas of accountability, responsibility and ethics will also be explored.

Objectives: On successful completion of this subject students should: 1. Demonstrate an improved understanding of the complexities involved in the formulation, implementation and evaluation of public policy. 2. Have gained an understanding of the role and influence of key players in the policy process. 3. Be able to link theory and practice. 4. Have developed the ability to present arguments (in oral and written form) relevant to the topic being analysed and debated.

Assessment: Tutorial presentation (500 words): 10% + Essay (2000 words): 40% + Examination (2000 words, 2 hours): 50% + Third-year students will be expected to demonstrate a more sophisticated grasp of the conceptual issues and their linkages to the practice of policy making. Third-year students will also be expected to demonstrate wider reading and greater understanding by answering at least one exam question of a higher conceptual standard than required of second-year students.

Contact Hours: 2 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week

Prerequisites: Any two of the following first-year units in Politics PLT1020, PLT1031, PLT1040, PLT1050, PLT1070, PLT1120 or permission

Prohibitions: PLT2270