Getting Started
In this assignment, the student will discuss the importance of using discretion in public administration through an integrative assignment that ties together the key learning objectives of this course. In completing this writing assignment, you are expected to demonstrate reflection, critical thinking, and effective written communication.
Upon successful completion of this assignment, you will be able to:
Explain how public-sector practitioners facilitate the execution of public policy.
Recognize the complexity of decision making and policy implementation in the public sector.
Analyze a complex policy-related decision made at the individual level.
Resources
Textbook: Introducing Public Administration
Video: Chiune Sugihara: http://www.kaltura.com/tiny/qe8db
File: Academic Writing Visual.pdf
File: OCLS APA 7e Guide
Background Information
For this writing assignment, you will view a historical case through the lens of discretion. While you may never face a situation like the one Sugihara did, public administration professionals at all levels make decisions that impact the lives of citizens every day. Thinking about decisions like the one faced by Sugihara will prepare you for future decision-making and leadership roles.
Postscript: Sometime after Germany’s surrender, Sugihara returned to Japan. Ultimately, he lost his job in the foreign ministry, which devastated and humiliated him. Many writers on the topic say that Sugihara strongly felt that the loss of his job was a direct result of the decision he made in 1940. Sugihara spent the remainder of his life struggling to survive and to provide for his family. He died in 1986.
Instructions
Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
Before you begin this assignment, read Chapter 2, “The Political and Cultural Environment of Public Policy and Its Administration” in the textbook Introducing Public Administration.
Watch the video about Japanese diplomat “Chiune Sugihara.” (Use the Chrome browser to access this link).
Review the Academic Writing Visual.pdf and the OCLS APA 7e Guide and prepare to incorporate all the principles presented into this writing assignment.
Submit an analytical and well-organized 1000- to 2000-word essay (including references) that thoughtfully and clearly addresses the following and uses corresponding subheadings:
The title page should include name and other required information for title pages according to APA standards.
Introduction.
Analysis of Three Readings: Analyze the actions of Chiune Sugihara in light of our readings. In other words, select three of our course readings to date and explain how each author speaks to Sugihara’s situation or decision. Organize your analysis by each author’s name and reading. Be sure to use in-text citations in this section. Ensure the three course readings are separate by three different authors. You may not use the textbook more than once as a chosen reading.
Two Insights: What new insights about decision making, discretion, and public responsibility does this case bring to your understanding of how these issues materialize in the real world? List and explain at least two insights. Use our course readings (as evidenced by in-text citations) to support your position for each. In other words, Insight One should have a citation and Insight Two should have a citation.
Conclusion. Ensure that your conclusion and recommendation(s) are logical and reasonable. You will combine research and analysis to form new insights.
References: Refer to APA when in doubt on how to correctly reference your sources. Include a complete and correctly formatted APA reference list.
This assignment requires a two-step submission.
You should submit your assignment to the instructor through the Assignment submission page by the end of the workshop.
Video: Chiune Sugihara: http://www.kaltura.com/tiny/qe8db
