Transforming Data into Action: A Discussion on Applied Data and Policy Analysis

As our world becomes increasingly data-driven, there is a demand for professionals who can analyze, interpret, and guide data-oriented conversations. With society’s need for individuals with these skills, the M.A. in Applied Policy Analysis program equips students with a diverse data-analysis toolkit that can be applied to a multitude of data- and policy-related questions. In this information session, Dr. Asha Shepard, the director of the program, will lead a discussion outlining the details of the program, as well as guide attendees through an application of applied policy analysis through the discussion of how education policy can affect an array of juvenile behavior.

Dr. Asha Shepard is an Associate Professor in the Economics program and the director of the M.A. in Applied Policy Analysis program at Goucher College. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. His primary area of research lies in exploring the relationship between education policy and behavior—particularly for juveniles and young adults. He has been in the Economics Department at Goucher College since 2018, where he has taught a variety of courses including; Intermediate Economics, Econometrics, Causal Analysis, Game Theory, The Economics of Inequality, and The Economics of Crime. In addition to his teaching experience, he has worked in both the private sector and public sector in data and applied policy analysis.