The purpose of this assignment is to compare and analyze the agendas of the current and two previous U.S. presidential administrations related to a public health concern selected by the student. The assignment is divided into three parts:
Part 1: Agenda Comparison Grid
Using the Agenda Comparison Grid Template, students will compare the administrative agendas of the current and two previous presidential administrations related to the public health concern they selected. Students will identify and describe the population health concern and its contributing factors, describe the administrative agenda focus related to the issue, identify the allocations of financial and other resources dedicated to the issue, and explain how each presidential administration approached the issue. A draft of Part 1 should be posted to the Module 1 Discussion Board by Day 3 of Week 1.
Part 2: Agenda Comparison Grid Analysis
Using the information recorded in Part 1 of the Agenda Comparison Grid Template, students will complete the Part 2: Agenda Comparison Grid Analysis portion of the template. Students will identify the administrative agency responsible for addressing the selected healthcare issue, discuss how the issue might get on the agenda for the current and two previous presidents and who would be the entrepreneur/champion/sponsor of the healthcare issue for each presidential administration.
Part 3: Fact Sheet or Talking Points Brief
Using the feedback received from colleagues in the Module 1 Discussion Board, students will revise Part 1 and Part 2 of the Agenda Comparison Grid Template. Using the information recorded in Parts 1 and 2, students will develop a 1-page Fact Sheet or Talking Points Brief that could be used to communicate with a policymaker/legislator or a member of their staff for the healthcare issue selected. The Fact Sheet or Talking Points Brief should summarize why the healthcare issue is important and should be included in the agenda for legislation, and justify the role of the nurse in agenda setting for healthcare issues.
The assignment will provide students with an opportunity to develop their research, analysis, and communication skills related to public health concerns and policy-making.