Public Policy Skills in Action: A Pragmatic Introduction - Hardcover

Bill Coplin is Director and Professor of the undergraduate Public Affairs Program of the Maxwell School at Syracuse University. Widely published in several theoretical and applied social science fields, he has received most of SU’s outstanding teaching awards over his 45+ years at Syracuse University.

This book is a guide to policy research (internet, surveys, and interviews) and applied analysis. Coplin (Syracuse Univ.) and his colleagues have successfully used the material in numerous undergraduate and high school early-start courses. The early chapters and a chapter on becoming a change agent are directed toward younger students. However, the book contains helpful techniques that will interest upper-division and graduate students. For example, the chapter on cost-benefit analysis includes practical advice on how to weigh different factors. A chapter on benchmarking provides recommendations on the importance of measuring success and step-by-step instructions. An engaging technique, called the Prince System after Machiavelli’s classic political treatise, is offered as well. Students score each policy actor on policy support, political power, and policy priorities. Policy formulation and coalition building strategies are provided to improve the political feasibility of proposals. Key concepts and learning goals are provided at the beginning of each chapter. Case study examples relevant to a college student audience are included throughout the book. Additional materials and exercises are available online.

Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty. (CHOICE)

“Bill Coplin again shows how he remains one of the most brilliant, innovative educators in all of academia. Building on his earlier work, this is a practical primer on how to do public policy analysis – sophisticated enough for seasoned professionals to use yet accessible to high school and college students alike and, indeed, anyone wishing to improve their citizenship skills. From identifying policy problems to solving them, this manual is filled with insights on how politics works and how to become an effective political actor.” (J. Martin Rochester, University of Missouri-St. Louis)

“This book demonstrates the power of practical instruction.” (Charles W. Kegley Jr., University of South Carolina)

"I have talked with hundreds of alumni who value the transformational education Bill Coplin has provided them. This book has been key to that impact. It will have the same effect for anyone teaching or learning in courses where theory meets action." (Kent D. Syverud, Chancellor and President, Syracuse University)

“This book makes public policy come alive! for students.” (Patrick Gallagher, Nassau Community College)