Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination: Public Administration

Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination: Public Administration Public Administration Theory and Public Management

Directions: Answer one question in the section below. Be sure to answer all parts of the question. Please indicate clearly which question you are answering. This is a closed book exam to take place in Robinson Hall. .

In preparing your response to the questions please remember that the overall logic and reasoning of your answer is important. While we expect that you will reference relevant literature and research to support your logic, it is not sufficient to rely simply on references. Clearly indicating how and why the literature of the field (in terms of specific ideas, content, and/or data) supports your reasoning is important also. Additionally, where clearly contending schools of thought exist about a subject you should indicate the nature of each schools’ position and which school of thought you see as most persuasive. Where your logic rests on your own unique synthesis and understanding of the literature do not be afraid to under score and elaborate your reasoning.

1) Theory is a simplification of the world aimed at clarifying or explaining how the world works. It is not simply a framework but a story of what we think is happening and why (Maxwell p. 42). While political scientists look to existing theory to guide new research, how and to what extent partly depends on the nature of the research. Discuss how existing theory informs your research.

2) Public administration scholars frequently use case studies to understand complex social phenomenon. Yet these "small n studies" are frequently criticized for producing findings that are not generalizable and that do not lend insight into causal relationships. Do you agree? Why or why not? Use your dissertation research and/or other studies to support your response.

3) Methodologists suggest that quantitative research should be employed when the goal of the research is prediction and qualitative research should be employed when the research goal is understanding. Explain the reasoning behind this assertion. Do you agree with this assertion? Why or why not? Draw on examples from existing studies and/or your own research to support your response.