Course Syllabus

 Course Description

This is a doctoral-level course on public organizations and managing their effectiveness. We explore theories and empirical studies by focusing on both seminal readings and recent treatments of topics. We contemplate the evolution of new governance forms and their defining characteristics, including the actors, institutions, and critical linkages. We study the implications of governance for various dimensions of performance, for example, efficiency and effectiveness but also democratic values, including our commitment to the rule of law, transparency, and public participation.

 Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this course, students will:

    • Learn key theories that have advanced our understanding of organizations and collaborative governance.
    • Become comfortable with accessing, reading and understanding the most influential articles associated with course topics.
    • Gain practice in the role of Discussant.
    • Learn how to complete a Systematic Literature Review
    • Learn about the different actors associated with collaborative governance and their defining characteristics.
    • Think critically about different organizational forms and why they exist.
    • Consider what we can borrow from other disciplines to advance our knowledge of organizations and collaborative governance.
    • Become comfortable with peer-review journals and their standards.
    • Think critically about the performance implications for different governance mechanisms.
    • Prepare for the doctoral exam by connecting course topics to possible exam questions.
    • Practice the skill of distilling information and writing in an organized and logical way.

 Course Requirements 

Required Text and Materials

  • All readings are listed by module on Canvas. Any readings not available electronically will be provided by the instructor.

Technical Requirements

You will need the following in order to participate in this course:

  • Desktop or laptop computer
  • Reliable Internet connection
  • Webcam
  • Access to Canvas using a supported web browser.
  • A lock-doen browser for the final exam

 Technical Support

For additional help with technical issues, consult:

 Course Assessment & Grades

Class Prep and Participation: 25%: Read and understand assigned readings and demonstrate understanding with answers to weekly (essay) prompts. Actively participate during class.  

Role as Discussant: 25% Students lead the class in the role of discussant during the semester.

Systematic Literature Review: 25%. Students complete a near publishable SLR or front end of article for a peer-review journal 

Final Exam: 25%. Think of the final as practice for your doctoral exam. The exam questions will be in essay form.

Submitting Assignments

A question prompt is provided for every module and based on the module topics and readings. Students respond to the prompt in essay form by 5 pm the day before class.  Due dates and directions for other assignments are clearly posted on Canvas. 

How Will I Know How I’m Doing in This Course?

Grades on weekly assignments (prompts) will be posted in Canvas within 48 hours of the due date. Your Canvas Gradebook will show your current overall grade based on the assignments you've submitted. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact me.

Late Work

Late Assignments are not accepted.