UNIT 4
WHAT IS PUBLIC POLICY?
Or Getting From A to B

OBJECTIVES 1) Understand the concept of public policy 2) Understand how policy decisions impact everyday life 3) Understand the importance of compromise in formulating public policy 4) Understand the difference between public and private domains

TOOLS and MATERIALS 1) Web access for online projects and research 2) Surveys and handouts

ACTIVITIES 1) Group Activity 1: How Do We Get from A to B? 2) Group Activity 2: Somebody Else's Shoes

SUMMARY of the LESSON

This lesson introduces the concept of public policy. It covers the complexities of policy making, as well as its multiple components. This unit includes a thought experiment that relates directly to the students: transportation. Every kind of transportation option involves public choices and decisions. How students get from one place to another -physically or politically- represents the process of Getting from A to B. Transportation policy provides a good example of the compromises involved in public life. It shows them that policy questions affect them and invite them to get involved in the discussion of public matters.