Analyse des politiques publiques

Teacher(s)

Schiffino-Leclercq Nathalie;

Language

French

Content

Using key theoretical and conceptual frameworks, students develop an understanding of what public policy is, how its various dimensions can be identified, and how its underlying dynamics and implications can be analysed and discussed. In a flexible and non-exhaustive manner, the course covers, among others, the following topics:

• A brief history of public policy analysis;
• Definitions and conceptualisations of public policy;
• An overview of major approaches and models used in public policy analysis;
• The main categories of actors involved in the policy process;
• The institutional settings and levels of public action;
• The stages of the public policy cycle, with particular attention to agenda-setting and policy implementation, including policy instruments, as well as an introduction to policy evaluation.

Teaching methods

The course primarily consists of lecture-based teaching, while encouraging active student participation through question-and-answer sessions that may lead to in-class discussions and debates on public policy issues. Where appropriate, interactions with practitioners and experts may be organised. In addition, one or more case studies, for example focusing on specific public policies, may be used to illustrate and apply the concepts covered in the course.
During class sessions, students are expected to take handwritten notes. Digital devices must be kept out of sight and out of reach. This pedagogical approach, which is intended to foster concentration, engagement, and classroom interaction, is explained at the beginning of the semester.

Evaluation methods

Assessment for this course unit consists of an oral examination held during the examination session and covering the entire course content (Article 60 of the UCLouvain General Regulations Governing Studies and Examinations, RGEE).
No materials or aids are permitted during the examination, including the use of artificial intelligence tools.
Where appropriate, students' active participation during class sessions may be taken into account in the final grade awarded for the course unit (Article 72 of the RGEE).
The arrangements and expectations regarding the oral examination are explained in class at the beginning of the semester.

Other information

This course may draw on concepts, theories, and knowledge developed in other courses within the programme, including, for example, Political Science, the Political System of Belgium, and Public Administration.
Course materials (including slides, diagrams, scholarly articles, examination questions, and other teaching resources) are protected by copyright. Any dissemination of these materials online without the professor's prior permission may constitute an infringement of copyright and could give rise to legal action.
Students are encouraged to share their own materials (such as notes, summaries, and study aids) only within private settings or restricted circles and not through platforms that commercialise or otherwise monetise user-generated content.

Online resources

Useful information may be available on Moodle.

Bibliography

• Jacob, S., Schiffino, N. (2021) Politiques publiques. Fondements et prospective pour l'analyse de l'action publique. Bruylant, Coll. Traités de la Science politique. Cette référence constitue le support principal du cours. Le traité est disponible notamment à la bibliothèque du site de Mons et en ligne.
• Knoepfel, P. et al. (2015) Analyse et pilotage des politiques publiques. Presses de l'Université du Québec.

Teaching materials

• Jacob, S., Schiffino N. (2021) Politiques publiques. Fondements et prospective pour l'analyse de l'action publique, Bruxelles : Bruylant, Coll. Traités de la Science politique.
• Articles scientifiques ou chapitres de livres scientifiques sélectionnés dans le cadre du cours, communiqués en séance et/ou disponibles sur Moodle, le cas échéant.

Faculty or entity

> PSAD