Understanding the relationship between policies and practices; learning the history and context of an issue; identifying key stakeholders and decision-makers about the issue; and knowing how to influence stakeholders, policies and practices, are key to making a deep and sustainable impact. Students should understand that different approaches apply to policies and practices, but both are important and interconnected.
Use the following tools to:
- How to identify credible sources of, and access, quality information about an issue
- How to facilitate research with students when you’re not an expert in the subject and how expert volunteers help
- How to determine when you have enough information to select a single policy or practice to change
This video provides a brief overview of Step Three of the Community Action and Problem-Solving Process.
Understanding Policies and Practices
Distinguishing Policy and Community Practice: An Introduction
What’s In Your Backpack? Activity: Understanding Policy and Practice
Examples of Policies and Practices
Policies and Practices Related to Our Issue
Generating Quality Research Questions
The 5 Whys Method of Questioning
Conducting Research: A Lesson in Policy, Practice, and Stakeholder Research
Developing Burning Questions- 2 Activity Options
Check out our Research Key Element page for more information!
Research Maps for Data Organization
Historical Timelines
Empathy Mapping
Stakeholder Mapping- 2 Activity Options
Reflections- Transitioning to Step 4
The Change I’d Like to See
Step 3 Reflection Post-Research