Research Paper

The research paper should be guided by the following outline for the policy analysis process.  In this process, you will:  a) define the problem, b) select a goal to address the problem, c) construct a set of policy alternatives, d) evaluate the policy alternatives, and e) draw a conclusion/select the best alternative and explain why.  Your instructor will discuss this approach with you in class  explaining the process with examples. During Part III of the semester (see Course Schedule), each student will provide a brief overview  of their paper to the class (4-6 minutes) followed by a short class discussion (4-6 minutes).  The purpose is to improve descriptive, analytical and verbal communication skills.  The format is as follows: Part 1              A.  Title of the paper               B.  Why the subject was selected and why it is important to study Part 2              A.  Definition of the problem               B.  The goal              C.  Policy alternatives               D.  Assessment of alternatives               E.  Choice of policy and why Part 3               A.  Respond to questions from students Guidelines for the Written Paper The paper is to be typed, double-spaced with 1 inch margins and referenced in a scholarly style (e.g., in-text references, footnotes, endnotes). Each page must be numbered. The paper should run 10-12 pages and must have a minimum of twelve scholarly sources. The references must include books and journal articles although other relevant sources (e.g., newspapers, magazines, websites) can be included. Although they can be used, be mindful that news magazines (e.g., Time, Newsweek, US News and World Report) are not scholarly sources. Also, books required  for the class can be used they will not count toward the twelve scholarly sources used for your paper.  Students are cautioned to identify the source of material used in the paper. The penalty for plagiarism is an "F" on the paper. A topic for the paper along with a one-half page proposal and six scholarly sources (books and journal articles only) are due in class on February 13.  The instructor will return the proposal to you with comments. Late proposals will result in five points being deducted from the final paper grade. Failure to submit a paper proposal will result in ten points being deducted from the final paper grade. Papers are due by in class on April 13. Late papers will be reduced three points per day beginning the day the paper is due. Do not slide papers under the office door of your instructor. Submit late papers to the department secretary in BAL 7000. Note about using Internet sources:  although Internet information sources are acceptable, do not be overly dependent on them to the exclusion of books and scholarly journal articles.   Note about paper topics:  your instructor highly suggests that you do not change your paper topic later in the semester since problems usually arise resulting in difficulty for the student including missing the deadlines noted above. Select a topic early, make sure that you have a sufficient number of sources and stay focused. Suggestion: do not wait until the night before the paper is due to print it - - computer and printer problems seem to be common at this time! Please consult with your instructor if you have any questions. Examples of Journals American Journal of Politics American Political Science Review American Politics Quarterly Environment Environmental Science and Policy Foreign Affairs Foreign Policy Harvard Journal of Law and Public Policy Journal of Politics Journal of Public Policy Political Behavior Political Communication Political Research Quarterly Public Opinion Quarterly Public Policy William and Mary Environmental Law and Policy Review Examples of data sources government agencies broadcast or print media websites statistical abstracts public opinion polls (e.g., Gallup poll)