One of the important parts of researches and various studies is theoretical frameworks. Theoretical frameworks are composed of various concepts and terms found in a study. It is the method where important concepts are linked together to demonstrate a particular understanding or connection to the research topic (University of Southern California, 2016). In public policy, some of the popular theoretical frameworks include Advocacy Coalition Framework, Multiple Stream Framework, and Institutional Analysis and Development Framework.
The study of Sotirov and Memmler (2012) utilized the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF). It specifically dealt with the numerous uses and advantages of the framework. Aside from this, the study also focused on the link and association between the various applications of the framework and currently existing debates on public policy. The framework was utilized as the main subject of the study. It was examined and thoroughly discussed to be able to determine the various inconsistencies not only about its properties but also about its application when it comes to changes in public policies. Using the properties of the ACF, numerous enhancements were identified which can greatly contribute to the modification and the improvement of the framework. On the other hand, the ACF will be useful for my research question because the framework not only focuses on three particular beliefs on public policy, namely deep core beliefs, policy core beliefs, and secondary beliefs. These beliefs contribute to the views of the stakeholders, especially when it comes to the external and internal conditions of the policy. By assessing the internal and external factors affecting the policy, revisions and modifications according to numerous stakeholders can be applied (Moloughney, 2012).
Another study by Chow (2014) utilized a different framework which is known as the Multiple Streams Framework. The study used the framework to be able to describe, assess, evaluate, and implement the national education curriculum’s policy process. Moreover, the explanation of the various processes as a problem and possible solutions were also identified. However, the ultimate goal of the study is to utilize the findings to be able to incorporate and analyze the different reasons for the notions of “policy entrepreneurs” and “policy windows”. The Multiple Streams Framework will be useful for my research question because the views of the stakeholders will be considered especially when it comes to the explanation of how the sanctuary policy came to be. It can also be used in assessing and explaining sanctuary policy as a concern. Since the main concern of my research question is a sanctuary policy of immigrants, it is important for the stakeholders to consider the association and connection of other streams or policy choices (Moloughney, 2012).
The third study done by Andersson (2006) used the Institutional Analysis and Development Framework. The framework was utilized to be able to assess and evaluate the newly adapted governance structure along with its decentralized policies. Moreover, the framework also allowed proper formulation of hypotheses when it comes to the factors that contribute to effective governance in a decentralized context. This framework can be important to my research question because it explains how various policies change as a result of the behavior of individuals. Moreover, due to its multi-dimensional nature, three concepts can be evaluated, namely: (1) operational; (2) collective choice; and (3) constitutional tier. These concepts along with the other concepts incorporated in the framework allow accommodation of the perspective of different institutions, especially when it comes to policy analysis (Moloughney, 2012).
In totality, these frameworks can be used in my capstone project because they allow proper identification and assessment of public policies along with various ways to properly modify the sanctuary policy to reduce possible inconsistencies.
References
Andersson, K. (2006). Understanding decentralized forest governance: an application of the institutional analysis and development framework. Sustainability: Science, Practice & Policy 2 (1): 25-35.
Chow, A. (2014). Understanding Policy Change: Multiple Streams and National Education Curriculum Policy in Hong Kong. Journal of Public Administration and Governance 4(2):49-64.
Moloughney, B. (2012). The Use of Policy Frameworks to Understand Public Health-Related Public Policy Processes: A Literature Review. Peel Public Health: Final Report.
Sotirov, M. and Memmler, M. (2012). The Advocacy Coalition Framework in natural resource policy studies—Recent experiences and further prospects. Forest Policy and Economic 16: 51-64.
