Main Content
Syllabus
PADM 594: Research Topics (3 credits): Supervised student activities on research projects identified on an individual or small-group basis.
The information contained on this page is designed to give students a representative example of material covered in the course. Any information related to course assignments, dates, or course materials is illustrative only. For a definitive list of materials, please check the online catalog 3-4 weeks before the course start date.
Overview | Student Expectations | Objectives | Library Resources | Technical Specifications | Materials |Course Requirements and Grading | Schedule | Academic Integrity | University Policies
Overview
PADM 594, Research Topics, offers students the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the theory and practice of public administration by applying the knowledge and skills gained in the MPA program to a Capstone project. This involves completing an extensive, in-depth applied research project paper reflecting a clear understanding of the cumulative knowledge gained from these experiences. The course is intended only for students who are completing their Masters of Public Administration (MPA).
Course Objective:
- To demonstrate knowledge gained throughout the MPA program and to apply that knowledge to a relevant public management, nonprofit management or policy problem.
- To produce a research study that demonstrates critical thought, exhibits a level of analysis appropriate to a master’s degree, and displays a high level of professionalism and competence in presentation
- To assess the effectiveness of the MPA program in achieving its mission, goals and objectives.
Module One consists of two (2) individual assignments. The first focuses on the communication skills required of all professionals in public service careers. Both written and oral communications will be stressed. The second focuses on understanding and developing research methods and situational analysis.
In Assignment 1, students will be asked to assess their own communication style and skills, their quality and level of their professional writing, as well as their capability in creating effective PowerPoint presentations.
In Assignment 2, using specific, research evaluation criteria, students will assess and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a selected, published research article and write a double-spaced, 10-12 page critique paper that reports their evaluation.
The wide range of possible situations, scenarios and current problems offer students the opportunity to apply Research Evaluation Criteria to the research articles. By applying the evaluation criteria in analyzing the published research articles, students will learn to recognize a published research article’s strengths and weaknesses. And, because you are using sound assessment criteria, you are more apt to learn the purpose developing and writing a research paper or report, how a research reports are to be structured, and what a research paper needs to include (or exclude), to publication quality.All work will be done on an individual basis in Module One.
Module Two consists of (one) research project assignment; Assignment 3 consists of a major team research project paper. The paper focuses on a public policy or complex social problem or issue.
It stresses problem identification, the framing of that problem, the development of research questions to investigate the problem through analysis of data and facts in the situation using analytical skills. In this module, emphasis will be placed on the ability of teams to work cooperatively to efficiently deal with a complex problem or issue that requires the use of teams to develop and integrate multiple perspectives. The problem or issue used may be drawn either from the existing relevant literature or from real-world examples.
The challenge for students will be to analyze a major problem or issue in a team setting asking and addressing the following types of research questions that need to be asked.
- What is the problem?
- What is the nature of the problem which the problem or issue centers around? In what way does the identified problem or issue reflect contemporary ethics and values?
- How best can the problem or issue be dealt with, given the nature of the problem, the resources available to the decision maker, and the context in which the decision is made?
Student Expectations
Make sure that you check your email everyday. Please use the course-email system (Select the Communicate link on the left menu on the course site, and then click on View Inbox to view, read and compose messages. Please make sure that you check the "Send a copy to each recipient's Internet e-mail if known" option before you send out the messages. If you send out an email to your instructor, you should expect to receive a response within 24-48 hours.
Objectives
Students will demonstrate their ability to conduct structured research, applying professional communication skills, as well as working in teams to investigate and analyze complex problems or issues. The goals of the Capstone are:
- to demonstrate knowledge gained throughout the MPA program;
- to apply that knowledge to a relevant public management, nonprofit management or policy problem;
- to produce a research report that demonstrates critical thought, exhibits a level of analysis appropriate to a master’s degree, and displays a high level of professionalism and competence in presentation;
- to assess the effectiveness of the MPA program in achieving its mission, goals and objectives;
- to work effectively in teams on complex problems with diverse perspectives; and
- to report team findings, conclusions, and recommendations to key decision makers, using appropriate formatting and professional writing.
Library Resources
Many of the University Libraries resources can be utilized from a distance. Through the Libraries website, you can
- access magazine, journal, and newspaper articles online using library databases;
- borrow materials and have them delivered to your doorstep—or even your desktop;
- get research help via email, chat, or phone using the Ask a Librarian service; and
- much more.
You must have an active Penn State Access Account to take full advantage of the Libraries' resources and service. The Off-Campus Users page has additional information about these free services.
Public Administration Research Guide
We have created a Public Administration Research Guide with the help of the Penn State University Libraries. The guide helps you find high-quality information and is created by librarians who are subject specialists in public administration. Specially, it provides you with access to databases for Journal Articles, Policy Papers, U.S. Government Information, Statistics and Polls, Reference Resources, and Current Periodicals.
Technical Specifications
| Operating System | Canvas, Penn State's Learning Management System (LMS), supports most recent versions of Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac operating systems. To determine if your operating system is supported, please review Canvas' computer specifications. |
|---|---|
| Browser | Canvas supports the last two versions of every major browser release. It is highly recommended that you update to the newest version of whatever browser you are using. Note: Cookies must be enabled, and pop-up blockers should be configured to permit new windows from Penn State websites. |
| Additional Canvas Requirements | For a list of software, hardware, and computer settings specifically required by the Canvas LMS, please review Canvas' computer specifications. |
| Additional Software | All Penn State students have access to Microsoft Office 365, including Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. |
| Hardware | Monitor: Monitor capable of at least 1024 x 768 resolution |
| Mobile Device (optional) | The Canvas mobile app is available for versions of iOS and Android. To determine if your device is capable of using the Canvas Mobile App, please review the Canvas Mobile App Requirements. |
Student Education Experience Questionnaire (SEEQ)
During the semester you will receive information for completing the Student Education Experience Questionnaire (SEEQ). Your participation is an opportunity to provide anonymous feedback on your learning experience. Your feedback is important because it allows us to understand your experience in this course and make changes to improve the learning experiences of future students. Please monitor email and course communications for links and availability dates.
If you need technical assistance at any point during the course, please contact the Service Desk.
For registration, advising, disability services, help with materials, exams, general problem solving, visit World Campus Student Services!
One of the benefits of being a registered Penn State student is that you are eligible to receive educational discounts on many software titles. If you are interested in learning more about purchasing software through our affiliate vendor, please visit the Technology and Software page.
Course Materials
Most World Campus courses require that students purchase materials (e.g., textbooks, specific software, etc.). To learn about how to order materials, please see the Course Materials page. You should check LionPATH approximately 3–4 weeks before the course begins for a list of required materials.
Library Reserves
Course Requirements and Grading
Module One
This module consists of two (2) individual assignments. The first focuses on the communication skills required of all professionals in public service careers. Both written and oral communications will be stressed. The second focuses on understanding and developing research methods and situational analysis.
Assignment 1 - Self-Assessment: 1 point
Assess yourself, and identify your strength and weakness in writing and oral communication. Post a 1-2 minute. self-introduction using a Webcam or Microphone to record your introduction and post it on Bongo. This is an excellent opportunity to "break the ice" with your new team mates and begin team building early on in this semester. If done well, the team should become a support group for you throughout the semester. 1 Point.
Assignment 2 - Individual Critique on a Selected Research Study Article: 15 points
This assignments requires you to
- Write a double-spaced, 10-12 page evaluation on the selected research study using the research paper evaluation criteria outlined in the Module. The evaluations format should follow the basic sections outlined in the Published Research Assessment General Structure must be included and thoroughly explained.
- Prepare an Executive Summary (to be included in the evaluation report) not to exceed 100-150 words max.
- Deliver/Post a 6-9 slide, narrated PowerPoint presentation on Bongo and provide comments to other students' presentations (comments on peer papers will be considered as a part of your "Contribution/Participation" grade.
Module Two
This module consists of a team-based research paper; a narrated team-based PowerPoint presenting the research papers findings. The module includes and a reflection paper, a peer-evaluation on the teams and their functioning on the research paper. The module concludes with summarization of various non-graded contribution/participation grade.
Assignment 3 Team-based Research Project: 75 points (Project Report: 65 points, Narrated Presentation: 5 points; Peer Evalluation: 5 points)
This assignment requires you to
- Develop and share a two-three-page double spaced draft analysis of the problem or issue underpinning the topic that your team has selected.
- Each individual needs to note the research issue or problem consider the context for and the questions needed that need to be addressed in order to analyze and assess and provide a reasoned set of approaching the task. 1 Contribution Point.
- Submit a capstone proposal worksheet and develop a team Work Plan. Each team will develop a Work Plan specifying the ways in which it plans to proceed. E.G. Who will do what, and by when? And, specifying the means by which the team will be able to determine if the task is proceeding on time and that all parties are timely with their deliverables. 1 Contribution Point
- Write up a reasearch paper, including:
- Title and Introduction (5 points)
- Research Method (10 points)
- Literature Review (5 points)
- Findings (5 points)
- Conclusion (5 points)
- A 30-35 page, double-spaced Research Paper (30 points): Please see the details in the descriptions in Assignment 3 Research Paper Submission.
- Use Excel or SPSS to analyze a data set (if using Secondary Data).
- Develop and submit a narrated PowerPoint presentation (5 points) - each person on a team is charged with posting and narrating at least two slides; this portion of the PPTs will be graded based on individual contribution to the presentation.
- Submit an one-two page, single-spaced, personal Reflection Paper - each individual in the group/team will prepare a report identifying the way in which the group went about its work: how the group divided work among members, how the group communicated throughout the process, how effective the group process was, and how you would assess each of the group members' contribution. (This will be graded 0-1, and the submission will count as part of the of each individual's "Contribution-Participation" grade.)
- Peer Evaluation - 5 Points
- Submit a Team Member Peer Evaluation - grade your fellow team members on a scale of 0 to 5 in terms of your perceived value of their overall contribution to your team's efforts and outcomes in this class.
The form will be available at the beginning of the final week via the World Campus Peer Evaluation link on the main menu. 1 Contribution Point
- Submit a Team Member Peer Evaluation - grade your fellow team members on a scale of 0 to 5 in terms of your perceived value of their overall contribution to your team's efforts and outcomes in this class.
Note: The four major peer evaluation criteria to be used in making your evaluation are:
- Actively participated in the discussion, e.g. frequently posting, commenting, offering ideas, and keeping in close contact with the group members
- Exhibited a positive attitude through the process, e.g. providing constructive feedback, helping keep the group focused on the task
- Willingness to be a real team player, e.g. willing to take responsibilities, respecting the group member's opinions, helping overcome glitches, and willing to stand up and make decisions
- Contributed fully in preparing the team/group report e.g. initiating and sharing ideas/resources, following up and assisting freely to achieve the team/group's goals.
Note:
It is import for students to understand the importance of academic integrity and how to avoid committing acts of academic dishonesty. To learn more about the concept of plagiarism and ways to avoid plagiarism, you can visit the site on the plagiarism section of Academic Integrity Training.
Contribution-Participation: 9 points
This includes contribution-participation assignments in the course: Discussion Forums (Thoughts and Perspectives, Wrap up), the individual draft topic analysis, the Team Work Plan, the Peer Evaluation, comments/feedback to your peers’ postings and discussions, and a Reflection Paper.
The goal of the Capstone Discussions is to build a "team", to get people thinking about the pros and cons of the Research Topic you are analyzing, and generate a conversation between all the course participants. Accordingly, be sure to revisit and reply to at least two of your fellow students' comments with each Discussion. You all come to this class with very different experiences. Sharing your varied perspectives and offering feedback to your peers is critical to "supportive, positive communication" and graduate-level learning.
Course Grading Scheme
| Assignments | Grade Points | |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment 1 | Self-Assessment | 1 |
| Assignment 2 | Individual Critique on a Selected Research Study Article: An Assessment Paper | 15 |
| Assignment 3 Part I |
Submission of major sections in a research report, inlcuiding title/introduction, literature reveiw, research method, analysis and findings, and conclusion A 30-35 page, double-spaced final research report
| 65 |
| Assignment 3 Part II | Collaborative Problem Solving Narrated PowerPoint Presentation | 5 |
| Assignment 3 Part III | Peer Evaluation (individual) | 5 |
|
Contribution-Participation | Contribution-Participation in the discussions, analysis paper, assignments, comments/feedback to your peers, and a Reflection paper (Individual) | 9 |
| Total | 100 | |
The World Campus follows the same grading system as the Penn State resident program. The grades of A, B, C, D, and F indicate the following qualities of academic performance:
A = (Excellent) Indicates exceptional achievement
B = (Good) Indicates extensive achievement
C = (Satisfactory) Indicates acceptable achievement
D = (Poor) Indicates only minimal achievement
F = (Failure) Indicates inadequate achievement necessitating a repetition of the course in order to secure credit
| Letter Grade | Percentage |
|---|---|
| A | 94-100 |
| A- | 90-93.99 |
| B+ | 87-89.99 |
| B | 83-86.99 |
| B- | 80-82.99 |
| C+ | 77-79.99 |
| C | 70-76.99 |
| D | 60-69.99 |
| F | below 60 |
Please refer to the University Grading Policy for Graduate Courses for additional information about University grading policies.
If, for reasons beyond the student's control, a student is prevented from completing a course within the prescribed time, the grade in that course may be deferred with the concurrence of the instructor. The symbol DF appears on the student's transcript until the course has been completed. Non-emergency permission for filing a deferred grade must be requested by the student before the beginning of the final examination period. In an emergency situation, an instructor can approve a deferred grade after the final exam period has started. Under emergency conditions during which the instructor is unavailable, authorization is required from one of the following: the dean of the college in which the candidate is enrolled; the executive director of the Division of Undergraduate Studies if the student is enrolled in that division or is a provisional student; or the campus chancellor of the student's associated Penn State campus.
Please refer to the University Grading Policy for Graduate Courses for additional information about University grading policies.
Course Schedule
Module 1 - consists of 2 assignments (5 weeks)
- Assignment 1
- Assignment 2
Module 2 - 11 weeks
- Assignment 3
Module One: Written and Oral Communication Skills
Module 2: Team-based Research Project
Formal instruction will end on the last day of class. Provided that you have an active Penn State Access Account user ID and password, you will continue to be able to access the course materials for one year, starting from the end date of the academic semester in which the course was offered (with the exception of library reserves and other external resources that may have a shorter archival period). After one year, you might be able to access the course based on the policies of the program or department offering the course material, up to a maximum of three years from the end date of the academic semester in which the course was offered. For more information, please review the University Course Archival Policy.
Note: If you are planning to graduate this semester, please communicate your intent to graduate to your instructor. This will alert your instructor to the need to submit your final grade in time to meet the published graduation deadlines. For more information about graduation policies and deadlines, please go to the Graduation Information on the My Penn State Online Student Portal.
Formal instruction will end on the last day of class. Provided that you have an active Penn State Access Account user ID and password, you will continue to be able to access the course materials for one year, starting from the end date of the academic semester in which the course was offered (with the exception of library reserves and other external resources that may have a shorter archival period). After one year, you might be able to access the course based on the policies of the program or department offering the course material, up to a maximum of three years from the end date of the academic semester in which the course was offered. For more information, please review the University Course Archival Policy.
Note: If you are planning to graduate this semester, please communicate your intent to graduate to your instructor. This will alert your instructor to the need to submit your final grade in time to meet the published graduation deadlines. For more information about graduation policies and deadlines, please go to the Graduation Information on the My Penn State Online Student Portal.
Academic Integrity
According to Penn State policy G-9: Academic Integrity , an academic integrity violation is “an intentional, unintentional, or attempted violation of course or assessment policies to gain an academic advantage or to advantage or disadvantage another student academically.” Unless your instructor tells you otherwise, you must complete all course work entirely on your own, using only sources that have been permitted by your instructor, and you may not assist other students with papers, quizzes, exams, or other assessments. If your instructor allows you to use ideas, images, or word phrases created by another person (e.g., from Course Hero or Chegg) or by generative technology, such as ChatGPT, you must identify their source. You may not submit false or fabricated information, use the same academic work for credit in multiple courses, or share instructional content. Students with questions about academic integrity should ask their instructor before submitting work.
Students facing allegations of academic misconduct may not drop/withdraw from the affected course unless they are cleared of wrongdoing (see G-9: Academic Integrity ). Attempted drops will be prevented or reversed, and students will be expected to complete course work and meet course deadlines. Students who are found responsible for academic integrity violations face academic outcomes, which can be severe, and put themselves at jeopardy for other outcomes which may include ineligibility for Dean’s List, pass/fail elections, and grade forgiveness. Students may also face consequences from their home/major program and/or The Schreyer Honors College.
How Academic Integrity Violations Are Handled
World Campus students are expected to act with civility and
personal integrity; respect other students' dignity, rights, and
property; and help create and maintain an environment in which all
can succeed through the fruits of their own efforts. An environment
of academic integrity is requisite to respect for oneself and
others, as well as a civil community.
In cases where academic integrity is questioned, the Policy on Academic Integrity indicates that procedure requires an instructor to inform the student of the allegation. Procedures allow a student to accept or contest a charge. If a student chooses to contest a charge, the case will then be managed by the respective college or campus Academic Integrity Committee. If that committee recommends an administrative sanction (Formal Warning, Conduct Probation, Suspension, Expulsion), the claim will be referred to the Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response.
All Penn State colleges abide by this Penn State policy, but review procedures may vary by college when academic dishonesty is suspected. Information about Penn State's academic integrity policy and college review procedures is included in the information that students receive upon enrolling in a course. To obtain that information in advance of enrolling in a course, please contact us by going to the Contacts & Help page .
University Policies
- Accommodating Disabilities:
Penn State welcomes students with disabilities into the University's educational programs. Every Penn State campus has resources for students with disabilities. The Student Disability Resources (SDR) website provides contacts for disability services at every Penn State campus. For further information, please visit the SDR website.
In order to apply for reasonable accommodations, you must contact the appropriate disability resources office at the campus where you are officially enrolled, participate in an intake interview, and provide documentation based on the documentation guidelines. If the documentation supports your request for reasonable accommodations, your campus's disability resources office will provide you with an accommodation letter. Please share this letter with your instructors and discuss the accommodations with them as early in your courses as possible. You must follow this process for every semester that you request accommodations.
- Graduation: NOTE: If you are planning to graduate this semester, please communicate your intent to graduate to your instructor. This will alert your instructor to the need to submit your final grade in time to meet the published graduation deadlines. For more information about graduation policies and deadlines, please see "Graduation" on the World Campus Student Policies website.
- Late Policy: Assignments are due by 11:59PM (EST) on the due date unless otherwise indicated. Late assignments are not accepted without prior approval from the instructor. Failure to turn in a paper by the required due date may result in a deduction on the final score, up to and including failure of the assignment. Make-up assignments are given at the sole discretion of the instructor on a case-by-case basis.
- Additional Policies:
For information about additional policies regarding Penn State Access Accounts; credit by examination; course tuition, fees, and refund schedules; and drops and withdrawals, please see the World Campus Student Center website.
If you have a crisis or safety concern, mental health services are available to you as a Penn State student. Crisis and emergency contacts are available, no matter where you are located:
- Anywhere in the United States: Call the Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400 or text LIONS to 741741. You can also contact your local crisis services or hospital for emergencies.
- Outside the United States: Please contact emergency services in your current location. You can also use the International Crisis and Emergency Services listings.
- At University Park: Assistance is available at Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) locations on campus.
- At a Penn State branch campus: You can search for counseling information at your campus.
Disclaimer: Please note that the specifics of this Course Syllabus are subject to change, and you will be responsible for abiding by any such changes. Your instructor will notify you of any changes.