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MPP501 - Theoretical Approaches to Public Policy in Northern Contexts

2022

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Public Policy

Unit Description

This unit covers a range of theoretical approaches for engaging with public policy in northern contexts, particularly cross-jurisdictional issues, remoteness, complexity and cultural multiplicity. The unit progresses from more mainstream structuralist approaches to public policy, through complexity and critical realism to post-foundationalist approaches. In doing so, the unit exposes students to a 'tool kit' of theoretical approaches through which to engage critically with all phases of engaging with public policy, at an ethical and political level.

Text Book

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Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Describe a range of public policy approaches utilized in northern contexts
2.	Critically analyse the underpinning theory for a range of public policy approaches utilized in northern contexts
3.	Evaluate the quality of information relevant to policy formation in northern Australia
4.	Compare and contrast public policies in northern contexts
5.	Analyse and critique a range of policy approaches and their potential implementation in northern Australia and the region.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Presentation: Critical analysis of a policy approach relevant to northern contexts and analysis of implications for the region Word length of case study and report are expected to total 10000 words. The word length of each item can be adapted in negotiation with the unit supervisor. The presentation can be made online, in person or through a public seminar. The method needs to negotiated and approved with the unit supervisor.	25%	1,2,3,4,5
2.	4000 word Case study: Analysis of a key policy area in northern Australia and the theories that have informed its development.	30%	1,3,4
3.	6000 word Report: Critical analysis of a policy approach relevant to northern contexts and analysis of implications for the region.	45%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2022	Semester 1	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR
2022	Semester 1	External	External Studies	OLR

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

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