This study investigates how case studies are used to develop critical thinking, problem-solving and communications skills of adult learners in non-academic public policy programmes. Much has been written about the effectiveness of case studies in undergraduate and post-graduate programmes in academic institutes of higher learning but less about the development of public policy competencies in practice-based continuing education programmes. Continuing education programmes are normally shorter in duration and comprised stackable segments to cater to the needs of working adults. Learners in public policy programmes want to develop applied policymaking skills to confront everyday policy problems. The research question for this study is ‘How effective are case studies in practitioner-based continuing education public policy programmes?’ This paper will start with a review of the literature on the use of case studies in public policy programmes that use the case method approach of learning. Programmes on policymaking tap on both theory and practitioner wisdom to develop competencies in critical thinking, system thinking, sense-making, problem-solving and communications skills. Using data collected through in-depth interviews with programme facilitators of case studies, questionnaires with learners, and first-hand observation of policy programmes, this paper discusses findings and insights on how learning with case studies in continuing education requires some adaption and re-design in order to engage adult learners, and offer deeper learnings of policy in practice.

Authors:
June Gwee, Civil Service College, Singapore

About the Presenter(s)
Dr June Gwee is a Senior Principal Researcher at the Civil Service College of Singapore. She specialises in using narratives in learning. She writes and edits case study books, teaches case writing, and mentors writers on narrative development.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamonsiri-buranasiri-1a27b977/

See this presentation on the full schedule – On Demand Schedule

Bookmark

---

A Note to Presenters

To enhance academic profiles and showcase research, we encourage all presenters and co-presenters to include links to their public LinkedIn, ResearchGate profile, and research websites. Presenters may update their bio for their presentation by completing the form linked below by October 22, 2024.
- Presenter Information Update Form
Submitted changes will be reflected on November 01, 2024

Additionally, presenters should also update their IAFOR account details if there have been any changes to affiliations or biographies.
- https://submit.iafor.org/my-account/edit-account