Delivering an MPA Emphasis in Local Governance and Community Development through Service Learning and Action Research

Abstract

This paper describes an action-based model for a Master of Public Administration emphasis in Local Governance and Community Development, along with preliminary observations during pilot implementation. This series of four courses delivers substantive and sustained community outreach in a proven developmental process while providing students hands-on learning opportunities that build core professional competencies by putting theory into practice in a real-time, reflective manner. Students who complete all four courses are uniquely prepared to step into local governance activities that build community capacity and engage community stakeholders in collaborative planning and action. Readers are encouraged to adapt and adopt this integrated outreach, service learning, and action research model to most effectively meet these dual technical assistance and learning objectives.

Keywords:

• service learning
• action research
• local governance
• community development

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Margaret Stout

Margart Stout is an assistant professor of Public Administration at West Virginia University. Her research explores the role of public and nonprofit practitioners in achieving democratic social and economic justice with specific interests in administrative theory, public service leadership and ethics, and sustainable community development.