Shaping Envt Sci Policy

4 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This is both a project course (involving a semester-long group project) and a reading seminar. It is designed with two broad, intertwined goals. The first is to get students to think more deeply about the ways science is used – and the ways it should be used – to inform, shape and implement public policy. The second is to provide students with practical experience in using science in the policy arena. In past years, some student groups have succeeded in changing federal policy. Class time will be used both to provide specific, practical guidance on how to participate in the policy process, and to probe deeper questions about the role of science in making policy. The project work is done in groups. (More information below.) Each group will need to meet and communicate regularly to plan, exchange information and carry out the project. The projects also require time for research, and for emails, calls and meetings with issue experts and legislative offices and others need to bring the project to fruition. At least one member of each group will participate in weekly office hours with the course professors to discuss progress and receive guidance on the project. This is an intensive course. Students should expect to spend an average of at least 4-6 hours a week (outside of class time and office hours) on reading assignments and project work. Note: this course will have a required recitation section each week, scheduled during the semester by the instructor.