The primary goal of this course is to help you think systematically about public issues and public policy. In addition, the course should increase your awareness of public service career opportunities. In this assignment you will combine what you have learned about the public policy process and your public service career interests to develop a policy fact sheet.
*A fact sheet is a 1-2 page document that provides basic information on a specific policy in an easy- and quick-to-read format. The purpose of the fact sheet is to share information andcreate action.*
Well designed fact sheets will be:
Well organized: each section is clearly labeled and builds a convincing argument for change
Well written: care has been taken to write concisely and accurately.
Well researched: citations are included where necessary, and clear care has been taken to attempt realistic policy solutions
These are the step-by-step instructions for creating a fact sheet.
Choosea public policy that interests you. You may use the policy you have been working on throughout this course or select a new one.
Gatherevidence that theevidence that the current policy is not working as intended.
ORto support/oppose a proposed bill.
Writea goal for your fact sheet. Your fact sheet shouldadvocate, i
nform, persuade, or educate(e.g., about a legislative proposal; budget request)
Writea thesis statement for your fact sheet - If your fact sheet is effective, how will it affect public perception and discourse on this issue?
Designa fact sheet that accomplishes your communication goal and supports your thesis.
Use the following headings for your fact sheet (you maythese headingsas a guide or create your own headings, but make sure you examining your policy comprehensively):
Required Headings:
HEADLINE/BACKGROUND
- Explain the policy in generalist language
- Explain how you would like to impact the policy.
- Explain how you think your impact would positively affect the community.
- How does this policy affect this community (and other communities like it)?
LIST OF SUPPORTING FACTS - INCLUDE FACTS/FIGURES
- What are the current policies? How are they affecting the community? Why do you think they should change?
- Identify the KEY policy actors on the particular policy (e.g. legislators, non-profits, advocacy groups, the media).
- Explain how the policy actors influence the policy
CALL TO ACTION/RECOMMENDATIONS
- What approaches do your alternatives take? (repeal, change, advocate, etc.using policy tools discussed in Birkland Chapter 9)
- How would your proposed changes impact policy outcomes?
YOUR CAREER INTERESTS - you can use your Career Exploration exercise results (Module 1)
- How doyour career interestsalign with your goal in this public policy change?
- How could you support the effectiveness of your impact through your future public policy advocacy?
- What role would your future public service career play in this policy area?
- If your own career interests do not relate to the policy you selected, state this use this section to discuss any specific public service job that aligns with the policy you selected.