Issues In International Policy Part3

Term Project: Developing and Advocating for a Policy

The term project this year will be divided into THREE parts.  The goal of the project is to allow you to choose a current international policy issue, and become an expert and an advocate for a particular policy solution.  This is a project that will cover the entire semester.  It is worth 40% of your final grade, so work hard!

Students will have their choice of topics to address.  Students should feel free to address any topic, even if it is not covered in the syllabus, provided they can justify its classification as an issue of international policy.  Students in the past have addressed various topics ranging from trade policy, national security, human rights, war and peace, and human trafficking, among others.  If it is occurring at the international level (meaning you are not allowed to address primarily domestic issues), it is fair game.

Part III: Oral Advocacy

Students will then record a video where they make an oral presentation of their policy position paper to the Professor.  Students should treat this presentation as if they were meeting with the ultimate decision-maker.  Explain the facts, the policy options available, and why your recommended policy is the best choice.  You will be graded on the substance of your presentation, as well as your presentation style.  As I have often imparted to students and colleagues, how you say something is often as important as what you say.  Take time to think about how you will most persuasively make your case.  Your presentation should last between 5-7 minutes, and will be worth 10% of your final grade.