Policy Brief

S​‌‍‍‍‌‍‍‌‌‍‌‍‍‌‌‌‍‍‍‍​ummative 2: Policy Brief Maximum length of assignment: 2,500 words Select a global policy theme and prepare a Policy Brief of 2,500 words. The Policy Brief should be on a completely different global policy issue. It should include/cover the following elements: •A clear indication of the particular global policy issue and why it has been selected •Indication of knowledge of different policy options to deal with it •Recognition of different perspectives and alternatives •Critique of current policy and alternatives •Provide an evidence base for policy choices and change (might include data, graphs, tables, literature, reports) •Accurate citation of data and sources drawn on •An Executive Summary Structure and word count for each section (Indicative only) 1.Summary of the global policy issue to be discussed and why (250 words) 2.The nature of the issue (350 words) 3.Review of the evidence (700 words) 4.Perspectives on analysing the interpreting the evidence and policy responses (700 words) 5.Reflections on evidence, perspectives and policy and conclusion (250 words) 6.Execu​‌‍‍‍‌‍‍‌‌‍‌‍‍‌‌‌‍‍‍‍​tive Summary (300) GENERAL INFORMATION ON ASSESSMENTS What is a Policy Brief • A concise summary of a particular issue • Policy options to deal with it • Recognition of different perspectives and alternatives • Critique of current policy and alternatives • Evidence base for policy choices • An accessible and engaging document making use of images, tables and figures, to effectively communicate issues to the particular audience (could be policy makers, civil society organisation, academics, etc) Purpose of the Policy Brief • To learn about a particular topic through a critical review of the literature, data and policy developments • To provide a focused overview of the critical discussions, arguments and research within a particular area • To demonstrate your ability to present material clearly and succinctly; • To improve your communication and presentation skills; • To enable you to demonstrate literature and research searching and analytical skills Assessment Rubric • Focus and purpose: Concise document with a clear and specific purpose and focus; • Knowledge of theme or policy area • Draws on different perspectives and range of sources. • Writing style and accessibility • Has a particular audience in mind (policy maker); should be accessible and succinct • Evidence (quality and quantity): Ideas and argument should be based on evidence. Issue/problem with current policy needs to be evide​‌‍‍‍‌‍‍‌‌‍‌‍‍‌‌‌‍‍‍‍​nced not just stated. • Accuracy of referencing