SPOLM0074 Researching Public Policy

Java Python  

MSc in Public Policy

SPOLM0074

Researching Public Policy

Assignment: Research Proposal

Summative assessment: 100%

Maximum length of assignment: 3,000 words

Submission Date: 12th December (by noon)

Formulate a research proposal which aims to address a specific and relevant public policy problem of interest to you. The research project proposed should be deliverable by a sole researcher within six months. Your proposal should be clear, well-justified and achievable within the time-frame. given. More guidance will be provided during the unit delivery.

The proposal should contain the following sections:

• Presentation of the policy problem and its relevance: using the literature provide a summary of the policy problem and indicate why the study of this problem is important for public policy. 

• Brief review of the main academic literature and research question (s): present SPOLM0074 Researching Public Policy a critical evaluation of the literature related to the problem under study. Identify main themes and gaps in the literature and based on these gaps propose a specific and measurable research question(s).

• Research design and methods: Identify and justify the main research design and methods that can help answer your research questions. Highlight any limitations of the methods chosen.

• Research ethics: discuss ethical implications of the research proposal presented.

• Bibliography

To prepare for the summative assessment you will be supported by a formative element consisting of in class group presentations whereby you will be required to critically evaluate a given research proposal. Oral feedback will be provided in class following your presentations.

We encourage students to use this summative assessment as a first step towards the MPP dissertation and to initiate discussions with the allocated supervisor. However, changes in topic or methods are admitted after submission.

Formal requirements

• 3.000 word maximum (excluding figures, tables and bibliography).

• Use Harvard referencing style