Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

This course focuses on the interactions between citizens, the third sector (or voluntary and community organizations) and government at different levels. In recent years, there have been important trends towards a greater involvement of citizens and civil society in decision-making and the provision of public services, in order to address a growing democratic deficit, adapt the welfare state to changing demographics, and decrease costs. The involvement of citizens and voluntary organisations in tackling important social problems – or co-production and co-creation – is thus a key theme in contemporary public administration research.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

• Has knowledge on theories of citizen participation, co-production and co-creation
• Understand different types of partnerships and collaborations

Skills

• Can analyze the barriers and challenges of co-production and co-creation in different sectors and different contexts
• Can discuss strengths and weaknesses of selected theories of participation and co-production

Competences

• Can independently choose and apply theories, methods, and data relevant to answer a chosen research question regarding citizen participation and the third sector.

Type of instruction

Lectures combined with exercises.

Exam

Exams