Course Assistants for MSSP 6280: Policy: Analysis of Issues, Strategy and Process

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Posted Job Title

Course Assistants for MSSP 6280: Policy: Analysis of Issues, Strategy and Process

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

Course Assistants for MSSP 6280: Policy: Analysis of Issues, Strategy and Process
The MS in Social Policy Program seeks 3 course assistants for MSSP 6280: Policy Analysis. Each of the lecture sessions are held at the times below:

• Wednesdays, 8:30-11:00am
• Wednesdays, 5:15-7:45pm
• Thursdays, 10:15am-12:45pm

Course description: Policy Analysis requires an understanding of social problems/social issues and the processes by which policy is developed and implemented. Critical skills in many policy frameworks include problem definition and analysis, review of relevant research, identification of possible actions, implementation and evaluation, and fiscal analysis. Competency in written and oral communication is also essential. To develop these and related skills, this course utilizes as a base a dynamic social problem analysis framework that addresses issues of equity, equality, and adequacy. It also examines multiple theoretical and analytical perspectives. Through the review of contemporary and historical social policy debates and provisions, selected case examples, and policy briefs, this course provides students with an understanding of the policy roles of the legislative and executive branches of government, including goal setting, policy rulemaking and enactment, allocation of resources, financing, regulation, and implementation. The policy process at state and local levels of government will also be addressed. The primary focus is on U.S. policy, although global policies will be discussed when relevant.

Requirements: The teaching or course assistant (TA or CA) must have a strong mastery of the course content as demonstrated by relevant degrees, classes taken, and/or professional experience. The duties include the following:
1. Managing the Canvas site
2. Grading of assignments/class participation
3. Contributing to the design of some of the assignments
4. Answering students' questions about assignments, course logistics, course content, and grading. The questions will be answered on email and/or Ed Discussion, as determined by the instructor. Difficult questions are escalated to the instructor.
5. Attending lectures or, by permission of the instructor, reading the relevant course materials instead of attending lectures.

Teaching/Course Assistants can expect to work 7-10 hours/week (max 100hrs total) and are paid $20/hour up to $2,000, or $2,000 over the course of the semester. To apply, please submit a resume and short cover letter detailing your relevant experience to: msspprogram@sp2.upenn.edu. Please also list all available course sections in your application.