Beginning with an orientation and overview of policy research, outlining the processes of policy analysis and evaluation from start to finish, Applied Policy Research, 2e then walks students through an examination of case studies to demonstrate how these theories play out in real policy situations. Illustrative figures help students understand the stages of policy research, and end-of-chapter tools such as discussion questions, assignments and activities, and case studies 'at a glance' help students master not only the particulars of each case but the broader skills needed in future research. This book will be essential reading in all policy research courses with a focus on practical outcomes and student preparation for public service.

Fred Springer is Professor Emeritus of Political Science and Public Policy at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

Peter J. Haas serves as Professor at the School of Global Innovation and Leadership, part of the Lucas School and College of Business at San Jose State University, where he also serves as Education Director at the Mineta Transportation Institute, California, USA.

Allan Porowski is a Principal Associate in the Social and Economic Policy Division at Abt Associates, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.

Part I Principles of Policy Research
1. Introduction to Policy Research

2. Be Real: Navigating the Policy Research Terrain

3. Be Creative: Policy Research with the Artisan's Touch

4. Be Credible: Using the Policy Research Toolbox

5. Be Useful: Developing and Delivering Actionable Information

Part II Cases in Policy Research
6. Using Research to Refine Quality Standards: The Evolution of Communities in Schools' Total Quality System (TQS)

7. The Dropout Prevention Mentor Project: Delivering Unexpected Messages Through Policy Research

8. The Use of Applied Policy Research to Inform and Reform Statewide Dropout Policies

9. Political Statement or Effective Policy? Comparing Implementation of State Bullying Laws

10. Intervention Effectiveness in Real-World Settings: The National Cross-Site Evaluation of High Risk Youth Programs

11. What to Do about Scrap Tires? Options for Productive Waste Management

12. Keys to Success for Transit Tax Initiatives: Repeated Research for Policy Learning

13. High-Speed Rail Workforce Development: An Estimation Problem

14. Climate Change Adaptation: An Assessment of Accomplishments at the Community Level

15. Housing Sales in Urban Neighborhoods: Using Policy Research to Inform Planning

16. Evaluation of the California Ignition Interlock Pilot Program: A Policy Experiment

17. Information for Community Policing: Cops on the Beat in the 21st Century

18. When the Process Is the Question: Resource Family Recruitment in Los Angeles, CA

19. Debt Burdens of California State and Local Governments: Are They Too Large?

20. Deinstitutionalization and Community Services in Virginia: A Policy Assessment

21. Case Study Lessons