Discussion
Criminal Justice Research and Public Policy
Without research, responses to crime would be based on opinions, emotions, and other factors that do not contribute to a reduction in the crime rate. Now that you have reviewed research on a wide range of topics as well as drafted a policy recommendation based on in-depth research about a topic, you may have greater insight on the challenges facing researchers and the role of research in the development of criminal justice policy at large. You may also have a better idea of how such research may play a role in your own career.

For this Discussion read the Learning Resources reflect upon the role of research in helping to develop effective criminal justice policies.

Post the extent to which you believe evidence-based research informs the development of effective criminal justice policy and why. Support your response with an example from the literature. Next, explain whether evidence-based research will inform your future role as a criminal justice professional and why.

Required Resources
Readings
Bardach, E., Patashnik, E. M.  (2016). A practical guide for policy analysis: The eightfold path to more effective problem solving (5th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: CQ Press.
Part 2, “Assembling Evidence” (pp. 83-112)

This chapter provides tips for the steps involved in assembling evidence through research. These steps include locating sources of information, gaining access to information and interviewing sources of information.
Part 4, “’Smart (Best) Practices’ Research: Understanding and Making Use of What Look Like Good Ideas From Somewhere Else” (pp. 125-140)  

This chapter focuses on identifying, analyzing, and evaluating existing smart practices. It defines the concept of smart practices as well as the terms functions and features. It provides a technique for systematically deconstructing a smart practice into its functions and features along with evaluating the practice’s applicability for a given situation.