Teaching Democratic Ideals to Public Affairs Students: Findings and Reflections from Diverse Course Designs

Contemporary public policy challenges are complex and require collaboration across sectors and agencies. This book provides strategies and ideas for public administration educators to integrate the principles of "with the people" into their teaching and practice. It emphasizes the importance of deliberation, engagement, and democratic ideals in preparing students for professional roles in public administration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The term "wicked problem" is used to describe complex issues that cannot be solved by a single sector or agency of government alone. These problems often require trade-offs or sacrifices that may impact society as a whole or a specific subset of it. Recognizing and accepting these trade-offs is crucial for finding solutions to wicked problems.

The book "Teaching Democratic Ideals to Public Affairs Students" addresses the need for incorporating democratic principles into public administration education and practice. It argues that the traditional model of government of, by, and for the people is insufficient to address the complex challenges of our time. The book provides strategies and ideas for public administration educators across diverse environments, including undergraduate and graduate education.

The book explores the ways that notions of governing with citizens can be integrated into courses that focus on public administration and policy. It invites instructors to think about what it means to be educators within higher education institutions in a democratic society, championing deliberation and engagement as a way to prepare students for professional roles in their communities.

Each chapter in the book is written by a contributor who has road-tested the inclusion of democratic ideals and principles in their own classrooms. The chapters provide blueprints, curriculum plans, and lesson plans for the integration of democratic principles in public administration education and practice.

Teaching Democratic Ideals to Public Affairs Students is essential reading for faculty in public administration, public policy, and political science departments. It will also be a useful guidebook for practicing public administrators, as well as those who provide training to practicing administrators and leaders.

In conclusion, the term "wicked problem" describes complex issues that cannot be solved by a single sector or agency of government alone. Solutions to these problems often require trade-offs or sacrifices that may impact society as a whole or a specific subset of it. Incorporating democratic principles into public administration education and practice is crucial for preparing students for professional roles in a democratic society and addressing the complex challenges of our time.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032260815