Introduction to Technology and Policy Analysis

How do we govern emerging technologies and manage their impact on society? Navigating the complex relationship between technological innovation and public policy requires a structured approach to decision-making, risk, and stakeholder values. This course prepares you to analyze, formulate, and evaluate policies that shape our technological landscape. You will transition from understanding basic engineering concepts to evaluating complex socio-technical systems. By reading real-world case studies and studying structured frameworks, you will learn how to balance competing interests and manage high levels of uncertainty. What you'll learn: - Understand the core phases of the policy process from agenda setting to outcome evaluation - Apply economic, legal, and business frameworks to analyze technological options - Evaluate risk and uncertainty using cost-benefit analysis and system dynamics - Identify and balance the conflicting values of multiple stakeholders in complex systems - Analyze modern governance challenges including data privacy, cybersecurity, and algorithmic bias - Practice collaborative decision-making and negotiation strategies for multi-actor environments This course begins with essential terminology and the foundations of public policy before moving into quantitative and qualitative analytical tools. You will explore how to frame policy debates, conduct risk assessments, and structure trade-offs in engineering systems through comprehensive written explanations and guided analytical exercises. This course is designed for beginners, aspiring policy analysts, engineers, and public sector professionals with no prior background in policy design or governance. Start building the analytical skills needed to guide technological progress responsibly.