Public Affairs 2130: Leadership in the Public and Nonprofit Sectors

The course contributes to Glenn College's learning goals and objectives related to foundational knowledge in public affairs; competencies in management, leadership, and policy analysis; and developing an appreciation for multiple perspectives in public affairs. In particular, the course focuses on the following objectives at a beginner level (unless otherwise noted):

• Recognize and interpret human behavior—individual, group, and organizational—in the context of the public and nonprofit organizations. (intermediate level)
• Analyze and navigate different behavioral situations in public and/or nonprofit organizations.
• Possess the skills to become effective leaders in public and/or nonprofit organizations.
• Have an appreciation for individual and group differences in perspectives, backgrounds, interests, and needs.
• Communicate effectively via written, oral, and electronic methods in public and/or nonprofit sectors.

A textbook may be required for this course. Please check your instructor's syllabus for details.

• Reflections Exercises and Participation: 15 points
• Film Analyses (3x5): 15 points
• Quizzes (5x2): 10 points
• Midterm exam: 30 points
• Final exam: 30 points

Reflection Exercises and Class Participation (15 points)

The success of this course and student learning partly depends on the quality of discussion and reflection we have in the classroom and online. Missing class, not being prepared, and not contributing to class discussions or group activities will adversely affect a student’s grade.

You will complete a total of 10 online reflection exercises (each worth one point) that will focus on module readings, videos, and activities. The reflection exercises may involve completing leadership assessments as well as reflecting on the key takeaways for each module. You will complete these short assignments online before the beginning of the class.

Participation (5 points) includes not only discussion of course concepts but also careful listening and respect for others in the classroom.  Active participation is based on preparation and includes providing good, solid answers to questions. Good answers indicate that you are actively listening to your colleagues and providing comments relative to the ongoing discussion. Relevant comments add to the group’s understanding of the material, challenge and/or clarify the ideas expressed by others, integrate material from past classes or other courses, and show evidence of analysis rather than mere opinion. 

Students may find it helpful to bring the Northouse text to classes as the instructor will discuss self-assessment results found at the end of the chapter.

Quizzes (5 x 2 = 10 points)

Students will complete six quizzes (10 minutes) that will focus on both class readings and other materials. Each quiz is worth 2 percentage points; The quizzes will include short-answer, multiple-choice, and true-false questions.  The quiz with the lowest grade will be dropped from the calculation of the final grade. The quiz dates are shown in the course outline.

Film Analysis Reports (3 x 5 = 15 points)

Students will watch six films that have implications for leadership. Students will prepare short reports (no more than 500 words/two pages, double-spaced, 1-inch margin, 12-point Times New Roman font) on any three of the six films. You will be able to access/stream the films from OSU’s library. In the reports, students will discuss the key leadership challenges presented in the films and the lessons learned, and ideas or thoughts that they have found intriguing. The analysis should synthesize or be informed by class readings and lectures. In addition to preparing the reports, students are expected to participate in class discussions on these movies.

The film analysis reports will be graded based on the following criteria:

• Substance – the quality of the analysis; effective incorporation of course concepts, readings, and exercises; and demonstrating the ability to think critically about the application of course concepts.
• Argument – ability to communicate clearly and persuasively
• Style – grammar, spelling, structure, and “the basics” of good writing

Examinations (2 x 30 = 60 points)

There are two exams, a midterm and a final, in this course. The exams will be in-person i.e., in the classroom, and will cover all assigned material, including readings, lectures, exercises, and discussion, up to the day of the exam. Exams are not cumulative. The format may include multiple-choice, true/false, mini-case analysis, and short answer questions. The final exam is scheduled by the Registrar’s office, not by the instructor.