Using PBL in public administration studies

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to briefly describe how PBL and other active learning methods can reinforce student’s understanding of Public Administration studies. This method will help student to achieve the necessary practical experience by focusing on real cases and solving real problems to have a deep understanding of all the processes that occur at the local and at the central level of public administration. This kind of approach will enhance the development of some fundamental competencies, such as: problem solving skills, better understanding of real projects, critical thinking, team work and team leadership etc. The current model of the study programmes in Public Administration do not correspond to the Labor market requests and sometimes includes disciplines that do not focus on the development of core skills and competencies. The transition from the traditional teaching methods to a new model of student centered learning method will help to strengthen overall management objectives of higher education, opening the way for competitive services, managing to contribute to the transition to the knowledge economy.