Critically assess the utility of the leading conceptual models of “traditional public administration”, “new public management” and “new public governance” in helping us to understanding of how the public sector functions in the UK today.

Aims of the Module and Learning Outcomes

Being introductory, the module aims to provoke thought, challenge preconceptions, stimulate questions and nourish inquisitive minds, more than to provide a set diet of ready-made ‘answers’. Thus, what is the meaning of public administration? How ought the system of public administration to be organised? What should be the responsibilities of the public sector? How is accountability ensured? How can we improve our public services? Inevitably, the philosophical issues raised by these questions make for argument and introduce conflicting interpretations. The module aims to ensure some familiarity with the alternative perspectives advanced in these questions.

Assignment Title -Critically assess the utility of the leading conceptual models of “traditional public administration”, “new public management” and “new public governance” in helping us to understanding of how the public sector functions in the UK today.