Paf 203: Data Analysis and Modeling for Public Affairs Introductory Lecture Agnes C. Rola

Conceptual Framework for public decision-making Public affairs-art, science and business of providing services for the development of the community and nation. It shall address itself to concerns crucial to local and national development It shall include programs and activities concerned for the furtherance of public interest.

Keywords Public means the majority of people or the community Affairs is the interest or welfare of others Development refers to any positive changes or increased welfare. Thus, the study of public affairs is the study about development.

What is development? Development is not a research problem. It is not a theoretical concept. It is not a scientific term. It cannot be analyzed in just sociological or economic terms. It is a policy goal.

Development Concerns Goal is well being of people. Human needs are hierarchical. The private market economy allocates economic resources. Government takes over in times of market failure.

Emphases of Development Studies Human resource investments, e.g. education, health care, incomes Government modernization, e.g improvement in structure, administration, fiscal management, and citizen involvement Improved information for market competitiveness and lower transactions costs.

Spectrum of Human Well being State 1 Low well being State 2 Higher well being through policies,programs, and projects

Indicators of well being Health Education Physical infrastructure Incomes Freedom of religion Freedom of expression Peace and security, et al.

Definition of data systems This is the demand and supply of information. Suppliers of information are analysts, researchers in government and statisticians. Information users are the policymakers and the businessmen. Data systems deal with how supplier of information could be relevant to user of information

Measurements and Indicators How do we measure development? Well being? To measure these, we first define indicators. Some indicators of development are income, wealth, good roads, etc. We then provide numbers to these particular indicators.

Sources/suppliers of data Primary data from surveys Secondary data from government offices, other researchers, Organized interest groups, mass media, outside specialists

Users of data Research/Scientific Community Program Administration Policy Planning and Evaluation Regulatory agencies Judicial sector

When does policy relevant information get through? Timely Credible Clear Concise Integrative Accessible

Implications for development research Development research lies beyond agricultural and rural institutions. Human resource investments are very important. An effective local government is also needed.

How to design an inquiry system Inquiry must be prepared to help select among the alternative solutions. Start with the reality or problem situation; Develop a conceptual model; Design a scientific model Provide alternative solutions

Data Analysis and Modeling Identify variables needed to define development Define interrelationships of these variables Data presentation Data analysis to solve the perceived problem.

Research Policy Link “We need to develop a new breed of politically oriented scientists and a scientifically oriented politicians.” It is time that we devote professional attention to the convergence of information into knowledge-Ken Boulding.