"Without choice there are no mistakes; without mistakes there is no learning, and without learning there is no development." - R. L. Ackoff

TEACHING

PAF541: PROGRAM EVALUATION

Coming soon..

Syllabus: Fall 2009



PAF591: COMPLEXITY IN PUBLIC POLICY & MANAGEMENT
-- Analysis for adaptive complex public enterprises

The objective of this seminar is to examine complexity in public enterprises. The course will cover the key properties of complexity sciences, especially those that provide insights for public policy and management. Students will have an opportunity to develop alternative perspectives that are necessary to define and critically analyze complex problems right now.

That the world we inhabit is complex is not a new idea. The novelty is that (1) we now have a better understanding of complexity and chaos, (2) we have an enhanced ontology to name, represent and explain the underlying concepts, (3) we now also have the computational capacity and wherewithal to model these complexities and generate simulations that mimic some of the complexities that we have observed, and (4) we are beginning to acquire an ability to generate plausible futures, without necessarily being able to predict precise outcomes. This course invites you to this new adventure.

Syllabus: Fall 2008
Flyer



PAF505: PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS

The objective of this course is to introduce you to policy analysis as a systematic way of thinking about public policies. Throughout the course, you will think about, discuss, and come to understand the crucial components of public policy, as well as analytical approaches to public policy. This will help you to take the first step in becoming a solid policy analyst.

This course is designed to help you develop the skills required to define and critically analyze policy issues and problems, articulate relevant decision making criteria for policy analysis, and evaluate alternative policy options. You are expected to learn: (1) what frameworks are available for policy analysis, (2) how a particular framework is relevant in a given context, and (3) the strengths and weaknesses of each framework. These frameworks, skills, and techniques will be applied to a wide range of substantive public policy issues.

Syllabus: Spring 2009 | Fall 2008 | Spring 2008 | Fall 2007