Policy Papers vs Academic Research Articles
Overview
Students will learn about the differences between the two and can examine examples that help clarify how information can be packaged differently and how those choices impact how a product will be used.
Academic research vs policy reports and papers
Comparison chart of characteristics
Structure of Academic Research
Structure of a policy paper/report
1. Executive Summary/Purpose Statement (Most staffers will only read this part)
2. Body
- Background: What is the current policy? Why is it being conducted this way
- Analysis: Why is the policy not working? Why is it necessary to find an alternative? How does it impact them and their constituents?Policy Options: Discuss a few alternatives and their implications. Acknowledge potential downsides and how to limit those risks.
- Recommendation(s): Provide your recommendation and how it can be implemented
3. Conclusion: Summarize analysis and recommendation(s)
4. Appendix: Relevant figures, maps, graphics, etc.
Comparison of a research article and a policy paper based on that research
Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues. (n.d.). Digital Gaming and Pediatric Obesity: At the Intersection of Science and Social Policy.* How can policy regulate the gaming environment to Promote healthy behaviors and reduce pediatric obesity? Retrieved from https://www.spssi.org/_data/n_0001/resources/live/SIPR%20policy%20summary%20on%20digital%20gaming%20and%20advertizing%20FINAL.pdf
Staiano, A. E., & Calvert, S. L. (2012). Digital gaming and pediatric obesity: At the intersection of science and social policy. Social issues and policy review, 6(1), 54-81. Retrieved from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3337684/
More examples of policy papers
Hooks Policy Papers on Social Justice Issues
Institute for Policy Research (IPR) Policy Research Briefs