PubPol 750.009: Topics: Case Writing | Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
PubPol 750

PubPol 750.009: Topics: Case Writing

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Level
Graduate
Term
Fall 2023
Course Section
009
Credit Hours
1.5

Remote Course

Case studies are narratives about real-world problems that give students opportunities to practice making difficult decisions. They ask students to apply technical skills and theoretical concepts in complex situations to propose solutions that, like in the real world, have both benefits and costs. As well, case studies provide opportunities for the Socratic method, a form of cooperative dialogue based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking. In this class, students will learn how to create their own case studies, to generate narratives about complex real-world problems in useful ways. This is a crucial tool for policymakers. It is not enough for public sector leaders to marshal data, analysis, and reasoning to make arguments; they must also learn to craft compelling stories to bring about change.