20 Sep C17

Context

Through this course we have examined the role of civil society actors in cities and investigated how they might use different strategies to facilitate change in order to achieve their goal(s). These strategies may include one or any combination of the following:

Engagement through political decision-making procedures
Participation through elections and other democratic processes
The utilization of scientific expertise
Communications and messaging using traditional and/or new forms of media
Interacting with different levels of government
Organizing public demonstrations, protests, and civil disobedience
All of the above have their benefits and drawbacks, and might be applicable and relevant depending on the issue, jurisdictions, and particular moment in time.

Question

Based on the topic that you selected for your Stakeholder Map or Stakeholder Briefing Note assignments, you are to select one of the strategies listed above and explain and build a case as to why you think that particular strategy is the most effective in helping a civil society actor (that you have identified) achieve its goal(s).

Tips and Instructions

Your Research Paper will require a clear and concise research question, which is specific to the topic that you selected. You may structure your paper and corresponding arguments, findings, conclusions in any manner you wish.

Your Research Paper should be no more than 1500 words, and please reference your sources as required. (i.e., the word limit does not include your references).

Grading Rubric

Your Research Paper will be graded using the following composite rubric:

Topic and Research Question
Is the topic current, specific, and relevant to both cities and urban politics?
Does the student identify and incorporate a suitable theoretical framework throughout the paper?

Civil Society
Did the student identify an appropriate civil society actor that is pertinent to the topic?

Critical Analysis of the Strategy
Does the student support the strategy using evidence from course readings and/or external references?
Are the references included both applicable and relevant and to the topic/arguments presented?

Conclusions
Is the summary and conclusion plausible and achievable?

Grammar, Writing Style, and Referencing
Is the paper easy to read and are the arguments clear and quickly identifiable?
Does the student use a recognized referencing style and is consistent throughout the body of the paper?