Evidence-Based Policy Making in the Social Sciences
Methods That Matter
Edited by Gerry Stoker and Mark Evans
Published
Sep 29, 2016Page count
276 pagesISBN
978-1447329374Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Policy PressPublished
Sep 29, 2016Page count
276 pagesISBN
978-1447329367Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Policy PressPublished
Sep 29, 2016Page count
276 pagesISBN
978-1447329398Imprint
Policy PressPublished
Sep 29, 2016Page count
276 pagesISBN
978-1447329404Imprint
Policy Press
Evidence-Based Policy Making in the Social Sciences
Drawing on the insights of some of the world’s leading authorities in public policy analysis, this important book offers a distinct and critical showcase of emerging forms of discovery for policy-making. Chapter by chapter this expert group of social scientists showcase their chosen method or approach, showing the context, the method’s key features and how it can be applied in practice, including the scope and limitations of its application and value to policy makers. Arguing that it is not just econometric analysis, cost benefit or surveys that can do policy work, the contributors demonstrate a range of other methods that can provide evidenced-based policy insights and how they can help facilitate progressive policy outcomes. The book will be ideal for upper level undergraduate students as well as Public Policy post-graduates, and can be used as the basis of an intensive learning experience for policy makers.
"This is an important book. University-based researchers, think tank staff, and policy makers, should all read it and follow its suggestions." Citizen's Income Trust
"This book is recommended to students looking to broaden their understanding of methods for providing meaningful evidence for policy creation." LSE Review of Books
"The book provides an excellent overview of a diverse but select set of qualitative, quantitative and creative methods relevant to developing robust evidence to inform policymaking." - Social Research Association
"This valuable book highlights the potential contribution of a wide range of social science research methods to policy making, and outlines suggestions for improving the research input into the policy process." Hugh Bochel, University of Lincoln
"An accessible and informative collection, providing invaluable practical guidance, which highlights the central importance of social science to public policy." Tony Manzi, University of Westminster
Professor Gerry Stoker is Professor of Governance within Social Sciences: Politics & International Relations at the University of Southampton.
Mark Evans is the Director and Professor of Governance at the Institute for Governance and Policy Analysis at the University of Canberra, Australia. He has authored, co-authored or edited 25 books in the fields of governance and policy analysis and has been the editor of the international journal Policy Studies since 2005.
Introduction: Gerry Stoker and Mark Evans
Part 1: Making choices;
Linking evidence and policy making ~ Mark Evans and Gerry Stoker;
Choosing your technique: A guide for policy makers ~ Gerry Stoker and Mark Evans;
Part 2: Tools for smarter learning;
Systematic reviews ~ David Gough;
Randomised controlled trials and experiments ~ Peter John;
Adapting qualitative comparative analysis for policy ~ Matt Ryan;
Storytelling and the art of Judgement ~ Vivien Lowndes;
‘Visualising’ Policy Options for Stakeholders ~ Leonie Pearson and Lain Dare;
Part 3: Developing data mining;
Big data ~ Patrick Dunleavy and Mike Jensen;
Cluster analysis, statistical analysis and policy ~ Jinjing Li;
Microsimulation and policy analysis ~ Robert Tanton and Ben Philipps;
Part 4: Bringing citizens back in;
Citizen science and policy making ~ Liz Richardson;
Deliberative tools and evaluation ~ John Dryzek;
Design thinking and public policy reform ~ Mark Evans and Nina Terrey;
Conclusion ~ Gerry Stoker and Mark Evans.
