This document provides information about the course "Technology in the Public Sector" taught at Northwestern University. The course explores how technology is transforming various areas of government like health, education, transportation and more. Students will complete a group project analyzing the use of new technologies in a public sector field. The course includes discussions with public and private sector participants and covers topics like social media, open data, and IT governance. Requirements include class participation, exams, and a group project.

1. Technology in the Public Sector
Northwestern University MPPA 490 Summer 2012
Instructor Greg Wass Phone 312-402-4589 or 312-919-2919
Time Mondays 6:30-9pm E-mail gregorywass@gmail.com
Location Wieboldt Hall Room 504 Hours By appointment
Text:
There is no textbook assigned for this course. Readings (papers, articles) will be posted for each
week during the quarter.
Description:
Technology in the Public Sector explores the many ways in which technology is transforming
the public sector, from health information exchange and homeland security to e-democracy
and open data.
Students participate in a group project chosen from an area of government such as public
safety, education, transportation, economic development, finance, administration, and
health and human services. Projects will analyze the use of new technologies and
strategies--open data, social media, cloud computing, data sharing, collaboration--to
identify needs, develop solutions and deliver services more effectively.
Course activities include discussions in class and online with public and private sector
participants who are redefining the relationship between government and citizens through
technology. (Schedule of weekly topics may change based on guest availability.)
Learning Objectives:
Understand current use of technology in government and education.
Complete a group project on a technology in the public sector topic of choice.
Identify trends and future direction for use of technology in public sector.
Requirements and Evaluation:
Participation in class and on Blackboard discussion board (25%)
Midterm exam (25%)
Group project (plan/resources/draft/final) (25%)
Final exam (25%)
Course Schedule:

2. Week - Class Date Topic Required Reading
1 - Jun 18 Social Media and Government
Shirky, Gladwell
2 - Jun 25 ERP and Shared Services
Beal, KPMG, HKS
3 - Jul 2 No Class
4 - Jul 9 Health and Human Services IT
Public Safety and Criminal
5 - Jul 16
Justice IT
Education Technologies /
6 - Jul 23
Midterm
Open Data and Big Data in the
7 - Jul 30
Public Sector
The Digital City: Transportation,
8 - Aug 6 Economic Development, GIS and
GPS
IT Governance and Funding /
9 - Aug 13
Group Presentations
10 - Aug 20 Group Presentations
(Last day of quarter is Aug 29.)
Examinations:
Midterm – July 23 (in class)
Final – Week of August 20 (online)