M5 - SW864 Podcast - Policy Analysis Actualized - Dr. ER speaks with Stephanie Lee

Importance of Policy Analysis and Practice

The podcast episode focuses on the importance of policy analysis and practice in the field of social work. The episode discusses the goals of an advanced policy course in a Doctor of Social Work program, which includes exploring the relationship between social problems, practice, and public policies. Various approaches to policy analysis, such as rational, feminist, and intersectionality-based frameworks, are introduced. The episode also highlights the value of hearing from experts in the policy arena, including leaders in social work practice, state representatives, and researchers.

Career Path and Perspective on Policy

The episode features a guest speaker, Ms. Stephanie Lee, the director of the Washington State Institute for Public Policy. She shares her career path, starting as a research associate and eventually becoming the director of the institute. Ms. Lee emphasizes the importance of using research to inform policy decisions and improve outcomes for real people. She discusses her background in experimental psychology and how her experience working in the UK inspired her to apply research to address community challenges. She highlights the power of research in influencing government decisions and expresses her optimism in the ability of good government and the scientific method to create positive change.

Role of the Washington State Institute for Public Policy

The episode provides an overview of the Washington State Institute for Public Policy, a nonpartisan research agency. The institute's role is to conduct practical research on a range of issues, including human services, education, and healthcare, as assigned by the legislature. They evaluate the effectiveness and cost-benefit analysis of various programs and policies in Washington state. The institute collaborates with executive branch agencies to collect data and inform policymakers about evidence-based approaches. It is emphasized that the institute serves whoever is in charge and maintains bipartisan collaboration in its work.

Importance of Cost-Benefit Analysis in Policy Evaluation

The episode discusses the importance of cost-benefit analysis in evaluating social interventions. Cost-benefit analysis provides additional information beyond what works, by considering the relative costs and benefits of different policy options. It helps policymakers make informed decisions by assessing the cost-effectiveness of programs and policies. The episode highlights that benefit-cost analysis can bring together members from both sides of the political spectrum, as it demonstrates how investments can yield positive outcomes and potentially save money. However, it also acknowledges that cost-benefit analysis has limitations and may not be suitable for all policy decisions, as other factors and perspectives need to be considered.

SW864 Podcast: Policy Analysis Actualized

M5 - SW864 Podcast - Policy Analysis Actualized - Dr. ER speaks with Stephanie Lee

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Importance of Policy Analysis and Practice

Career Path and Perspective on Policy

Role of the Washington State Institute for Public Policy

Importance of Cost-Benefit Analysis in Policy Evaluation

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