PAC Seminar Introduction SUP-150Y 2015-16 JOSHUA GOODMAN SyLLABUS SUP COURSE SHEET ATTENDANCE

What is a PAE? Customized product for specific client addressing specific challenge Clear statement of the challenge Clear statement of the goals Analysis of alternative strategies to reach those goals Policy recommendations Recommendations for implementation and performance assessment May take form of a traditional consulting report or a briefing book A PAE is also a process Working with and managing a client Working with and managing an advisor Working with and managing a partner

Guidelines for Muddling Through the PAE Decide what you want out of the PAE (skills, client). Pick a topic you can live with for a year. Identify your client: Who is responsible for you? How much of their time you will get? Define problem as clearly and quickly as possible. I can not stress this point enough. Really, I can’t.

Guidelines for Muddling Through the PAE Make sure you and client each understand your roles. As early as possible, identify where the data will come from and who is responsible for providing it. Take initiative. Remember you have advisors and peers in the seminar to provide support and guidance. Be prepared for changes.

“Working in PAE Pairs” (Jieun Baek and Laila Matar) “If partners are chosen well, there are tremendous benefits in working in pairs for the MPP PAE.” “The pair could potentially cover a broader research question... and deliver a more substantial product.” “The pair could give each other constructive and honest feedback… that could help hone research, writing, and interview skills.” “A good partner will be a much harsher and more effective critic than almost any other MPP friend.” “Working in pairs is good training for co-authoring reports in the future.”

PAE Timeline Topic selection: September 25 Prospectus: October 26 Progress report: December 2 Presentations: January and February First draft: February 11 Final draft: March 29

The PAC Seminar Meets most Thursdays early on, then lots of office hours In class, we’ll: Read great past PAEs so you understand what one looks like Help each other clarify the central problem being solved in our PAEs Discuss a variety of research designs Learn how to write a prospectus Learn about the requirements of human subjects research Present your PAEs to each other In office hours, we’ll: Address your individual needs and challenges Read syllabus for details about assignments

In the next week(s) Check the PAE database Read past PAEs in the library to identify potential clients Call potential clients Talk to faculty Talk to classmates

The Rest of Today Tell us where you are in this process (1 minute tops!) Name Topic area of interest Type of client desired Interest in working with a partner Connect with faculty and classmates (if useful)