Theory of public organization, administration and work

Aim
This course will sharpen students understanding of mainstream theoretical concepts within public administration and administrative politics. A subject area highly relevant to the study of political sociology and organization studies. The aim of the course is to enhance students ability to critically scrutinize modern administration and reform of the public sector applying sociological understandings of power, bureaucracy, institution, culture and action. Through this course students will also strengthen their ability to understand logics of public administration which most of them will encounter during their working life. Today about one third of all Danish workplaces are found within the public sector in Denmark. Public sector provides the main bulk of welfare and social security and is also heavily involved in supporting arts and private enterprise.

Course Description:

The course is organized in 7 sessions. First students are introduced to classical thinking about the bureaucracy and public administration. Next, mainstream concepts on the reforming and modernization of the public sector is introduced. During the following three sessions rational choice thinking in public administration is scrutinized. It is demonstrated how public choice concepts has both influenced and become challenged by various ‘new’ ways of approaching public administration end employees. Furthermore, we look closer at classic and new understandings of the concept of legitimacy. In the last two sessions the course deals with different analytical approaches to public employees, welfare professionals, their motivation and the creation of trust within the public organization. The course is participatory. Each session will involve a mixture of lecture and case-discussions engaging students in applying theoretical concepts. A voluntary visit to a public organization (preferably a Danish municipality or region) will be arranged.

When: Spring 2015
Why: 5 ECTS
Teaching Language: English
How: See how to sign up at https://kurser.ku.dk/course/asok05341u/2014-2015
Lecturer: Nana Wesley Hansen, FAOS, Department of Sociology
Questions: Send email to nha@faos.dk