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PPA 500 - Research Methods for Public Policy and Admin

  • 3 credits

Introduction to the design, logic, and ethics of research methods appropriate for the evaluation of policies and programs before, during, and after implementation. Graduate standing.

Textbooks and Materials

Please check the CSU Bookstore for textbook information. Textbook listings are available about 3 weeks prior to the start of the term.

Instructors

Allison White

allison.white2@colostate.edu

My academic training is in Comparative Politics and International Relations with specialization in Russian domestic politics, particularly the causes and effects of electoral policy. My research is informed by domestic and international nongovernmental organizations in Russia that work to advance the country’s democratic prospects and election monitoring agencies aiming to detect electoral fraud and uncover voter coercion. My research interests also extend into the area of policies pertaining to ethnic federalism and the voting patterns of ethnic minorities in the post-Soviet space.
My practical experience includes living in Russia for extended periods of time, which has allowed me to observe Russian politics first-hand and also take time to see plenty of the world-famous ballets. Working alongside various agencies, I have witnessed the ethical dilemmas and efficacy challenges that non-governmental organizations face when carrying out their daily operations. Living in an authoritarian regime where those working with non-governmental organizations face constant harassment and are sometimes forced to shutter their operations completely has given me a profound appreciation for the tireless dedication of the community involved in political and economic development overseas.

Trenten Robinson

trenten.robinson@colostate.edu

My academic interests focus mainly on state and local government in the United States. I am primarily interested in the management, personnel, and structures of cities, counties, special districts, pseudo-governments (such as HOAs) and school districts. As a practitioner, I have worked in a policy role at the Colorado State Legislature and have vast experience in multiple municipalities and special districts in Colorado. My professional roles center on group training and facilitation, process improvement, and change management. I served as one of 50 delegates to the NAPA "Local Government 2030" initiative from 2021 to 2024, where I was selected as an Administrative Services delegate for my work creating the "Center for Innovation" internal consulting firm at the City of Commerce City, CO. My research interests include city management, local politics/administration relations, local government institutions, employee motivation and public service motivation, and the treatment of public employees.