The lectures will introduce students to the principles of quantitative policy analysis, namely the methods to predict and evaluate the social, economic, and environmental effects of alternative strategies to achieve public objectives. A series of individual assignments, and one group project, will give students an opportunity for students to apply those methods to a set of case studies.
Learning objective
The objectives of this course are to develop the following key skills necessary for policy analysts: - Identifying the critical quantitative factors that are of importance to policy makers in a range of decision-making situations. - Developing conceptual models of the types of processes and relationships governing these quantitative factors, including stock-flow dynamics, feedback loops, optimization, sources and effects of uncertainty, and agent coordination problems. - Develop and program numerical models to simulate the processes and relationships, in order to identify policy problems and the effects of policy interventions. - Communicate the findings from these simulations and associated analysis in a manner that makes transparent their theoretical foundation, the level and sources of uncertainty, and ultimately their applicability to the policy problem. The course will proceed through a series of policy analysis and modeling exercises, involving real-world or hypothetical problems. The specific examples around which work will be done will concern the environment, energy, health, and natural hazards management.
Competencies
Subject-specific Competencies
Concepts and Theories
assessed
Techniques and Technologies
fostered
Method-specific Competencies
Analytical Competencies
assessed
Decision-making
assessed
Media and Digital Technologies
assessed
Problem-solving
assessed
Project Management
fostered
Social Competencies
Communication
assessed
Cooperation and Teamwork
fostered
Personal Competencies
Creative Thinking
assessed
Critical Thinking
assessed
Self-awareness and Self-reflection
fostered
Self-direction and Self-management
fostered
Performance assessment
Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Repetition only possible after re-enrolling for the course unit.
Additional information on mode of examination
There will be a set of five individual modelling assignments utilising a flipped-classroom, and one large group project at the end of the semester requiring a presentation and a written report.
Learning materials
No public learning materials available.
Only public learning materials are listed.
Groups
No information on groups available.
Restrictions
There are no additional restrictions for the registration.
Performance assessment as a semester course