Policy, Politics and Participation

Course Objective

On successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. analyse a complex societal problem, taking into consideration stakeholder perspectives;
2. apply models and insights from political theory and the policy sciences to make sense of the problem;
3. apply specific qualitative social science methods for data collection (focus group approach) and reflect on possibilities for working in a transdisciplinary manner;
4. develop an argument, combining conceptual and empirical insights, on how the problem might be resolved;
5. convey your assessment of the problem and its solution in a convincing manner, improving your communication skills;
6. work effectively in a project team, improving skills in collaborative project design and execution.

Course Content

In this course, you will combine theory with practice to make sense of a concrete societal issue and contribute to its resolution. In a small group, you will learn to apply a specific method for data collection (focus group discussions) which will help you include the views of those affected by the issue in your process of articulating the issue as a (policy) problem, and outlining directions for its solution. The course pays attention to skills required in transdisciplinary research.

The course focuses on societal problems and their solutions, of which the complexity can be mind-blowing. Take for instance the relation between someone's health and diet: if a person's eating habits are detrimental to their health, what to take on board when thinking about a solution? Does that mean developing an information campaign about buying healthy food, or rather creating a tax on foods that are high in fat, salt or sugar? Or should one look for solutions by changing the design of supermarkets or even city centers? In the process of problem articulation, on a conceptual level, we will draw on the policy sciences, participation literature and political theory to answer such questions as: whose responsibility is it to act on a problem, is it an individual’s responsibility, or that of business or governments? Which roles should and can government take? We will look particularly in the relation between power and knowledge in developing solutions: whose expert views should come to bear on policy decisions to be taken? What is the relative weight of the input from academically trained experts, and how to combine that with the views and expertise of those who are literally impacted by an issue, or others with experiential expertise?

On a practical level, you will engage in conversations with people who are active in the field of policy-making and societal change, who will share their experiences as guest lecturers. And you will be trained to apply a research method - focus groups approach - that will get you in conversation with individuals who hold a stake in a specific issue under scrutiny. Due attention will be paid to the research competencies and personal skills necessary for engaging in such form of social science data collection. At the end of the course, you will present your findings and recommendations verbally.

Additional Information Teaching Methods

The course is designed from a 'Student-in-the-Lead' perspective, seeking to build on and stimulate participants' sense of ownership of their own learning trajectory. This means that it is based on intensive exchanges among students, between students and (guest) lecturers, and between students and stakeholders. Therefore, participation in the (guest) lectures, which are integrated together with practical discussion assignments into working seminars, is mandatory, as is participation in the focus group seminars and literature discussion sessions. By thus making the most of our time together, we aspire to combine a reflective, in-depth way of approaching our themes and topics with a time-efficient way of working.

Note: in this course, use of generative AI is permitted only in a limited way, with disclosure

In this course, generative AI (GenAI), such as ChatGPT or similar tools, may be used in a limited way, for example for editorial support, rephrasing, or structure. Substantive contributions from GenAI may only be used within the limits set by the lecturer. Any use of GenAI must always be explicitly disclosed, in accordance with the lecturer's instructions. The student remains fully responsible for the content, quality, and accuracy of the submitted work. Incorrect use of GenAI is considered fraud. If established, the submitted work or assessment result will be declared invalid, and the Examination Board may impose further measures.

Method of Assessment

Progress assessment and examination will be as follows:

Individual grade [50%]:

• Literature discussion facilitation and participation (20%)
• (open book) Exam (30%)

Group grade [50%]:

• Focus group Design (20%)
• Presentation (including analysis, policy recommendations) (30%)

For the group assignments a pass grade (> 5.5) needs to be obtained in order to receive a final mark. If you fail the exam, a resit will be arranged.

Entry Requirements

Participation in a Master program of the VU Science faculty

Literature

Additional Information Target Audience

Students from the faculty of science can follow this course as an elective. This is in particular an optional course for Master students Management, Policy Analysis and Entrepreneurship in Health and Life sciences (MPA), Societal differentiation of the Health, Life & Natural Sciences. It is a mandatory course for MPA students who specialise in Policy. This course is also part of the Studypath Science, Society and Communication.

Additional Information

Attendance is compulsory. (You will spend a great deal of your time on team work.)

Use of Generative AI (GenAI)

This course follows the BETA Faculty policy on GenAI use. Use

GenAI responsibly and in line with the VU academic integrity policy and the VU recommendations on responsible use of GenAI.

Custom Course Registration

Registration deadline by VUnet is 4 weeks before the start of the course.

Explanation Canvas

All information on the course, its assignments and results will be communicated via Canvas. Students are expected to keep themselves updated on information on the course available via Canvas.

Recommended background knowledge

Basic knowledge of the policy process (via the course Analysis of Governmental Policy (AGP) or an equivalent introductory course on policy) and of basic social science research skills are recommended. Additional background reading might be required if the student has not participated in any introductory course on policy.