OAFP 4125 - Technology policy in global context: States, enterprises, power and progress

This course equips students with the tools to analyze, design and evaluate public policies related to industry, technology and innovation. Students will discuss how governments think about developing technology in frontier sectors, like defense, semi-conductors, space, clean techs, etc. The course follows 3 sections: (1) theoretical foundations from innovation theory, political economy and macroeconomics; (2) policy analysis (strategy, policy instruments like funding…) ; (3) industry-specific focus including the current transformation of the defense sector, space policy and climate. Throughout the class, students will reflect on how policy instruments are combined as a mix and how policies are practiced vs. theory.

This course requires limited prior knowledge except a basic understanding of economics.

Lecture notes will be uploaded right before the lecture on the Sciences Po Moodle.

Students will be assessed through a set of activities structured around a simulation exercise, which serves as the core pedagogical framework of the course :

1- Pre-simulation position memo (group work) 30%

Students will draft a policy memo addressed to a relevant decision-maker outlining and justifying the position and strategy they will defend during the simulation.

2 - Performance during the simulation (group work) 20%

Assessment of students’ active participation, strategic engagement, and consistency of arguments throughout the simulation exercise.

3 - Post-simulation reflective brief (individual work) 50%

A short reflective assignment critically assessing the student’s role, strategic choices, learning outcomes, and insights gained from the simulation.

In-class participation in case study debates, for which the assigned readings are required, will also be taken into account in the final grade.

Students are expected to read materials of 10-20 pages to come prepared for the sessions - materials will cover specific examples or cases discussed in class and from which theoretical lecture will start.