This September, the Ford School launched the Policy Analysis Learning Lab (PAL), a learning support initiative designed to equip students with the confidence to use policy analysis for the public good.
Inaugural faculty director Alton Worthington brings deep knowledge of teaching quantitative methods to a diverse community of students and a wealth of research experience. He has taught statistical computing and data visualization at the Ford School since 2018, and has expertly guided and advised students at all technical and comfort levels using analytical tools.
“Policy analysis is a tool everyone can use to create effective public policy,” said Worthington. “We care deeply about making sure the methods we teach are for everyone, and our goal is to provide a supportive learning environment for all of our students to learn how to use and master these tools.”
At the start of the semester, Worthington hired 8 graduate student consultants to help students with specific questions about concepts, homework, analytical software, and practice problems. The PAL will host pop-up workshops featuring specialized methods, techniques, and practical applications. Looking ahead, the initiative also plans to extend its support to qualitative research skills.
The PAL expands on existing student support resources to ensure all have the opportunity to benefit from the Ford School's world-class analysis training. The initiative comes out of productive discussions with current students and the Ford School Alumni Board on ways to improve student success.
Currently, both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in any quantitative course at the Ford School can schedule an appointment with a PAL consultant for tailored support. For more information and to book an appointment, please visit our webpage.
