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We can learn about policy ideas and associated research from academic journals, from collections of surveys and statistics, from the news, and from other publications.
- Journals. Search web and library databases. Also search domain-specific databases. Use the footnotes and references to refine your search. Ask for a librarian to help! Contact your local public or university library for assistance.
- Statistics and trends. Organizations that conduct surveys or opinion research and polls can provide helpful context to understand both the problem and potential solutions.
- News. A news search is the most obvious place to begin using an Internet search engine or a news database. Try Google News and establish an alert.
- YouTube videos. A video search of news sources provides access to additional sources of news and documentaries.
- News magazines. News magazines often write about academic studies, and stories about what works are popular.
- Online news magazines. The Conversation puts out nine different editions. Project Syndicate offers policy op-eds from leading lights.
- Government publications. Relevant agencies, federally funded R&D centers (i.e., national laboratories), National Academies, Congressional Research Service, Government Accountability Office, Congressional Budget Office, and Congressional Quarterly are just some examples.
- Nongovernmental organizations. Think tanks, interest groups, and nonprofits frequently publish studies, reports, and white papers, detailing successful interventions. Start by creating a map of key organizations and reviewing their websites.
- Newsletters on governance innovations. The GovLab Living Library, the Brookings Institution, the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the Institute for Local Government, City Lab, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and Centre for Public Impact are all relevant newsletters that cover innovative policy, social innovation, and related solutions.
- Other jurisdictions. National Governors Association, National Conference of Mayors, International City and County Managers Association, and Living Cities are umbrella organizations in the United States with good insight into which public officials are knowledgeable on your topic. There are comparable associations in other countries.
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