Public Service Markets - SPY00161M
Module will run
Occurrence | Teaching period |
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A | Semester 2 2024-25 |
Module aims
This module introduces students into public service markets as an organising principle for managing and delivering public services. The module draws on theoretical and analytical approaches on public service markets and the innovations they bring in public service delivery such as increased competition among providers and user choice. The module explores how public service markets are utilised for achieving public policy objectives across a range of policy areas such as probation, prisons, employment, child and elderly care. Equally important, the module focuses on market failure and the need for government intervention to combat market distortions, corruption and underperforming service providers. The module focuses primarily on UK experiences and selected international cases.
Module learning outcomes
Having successfully completed this module students will:
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Engage with key theoretical approaches on public service markets and critically reflect on their application to real-world examples
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Compare how public service markets operate across policy areas and international contexts
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Appreciate and reflect on the causes of market failure and market oversight
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Appreciate the factors determining effectiveness of choice and regulation of competition in public services
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Understand the governments’ role in setting frameworks and influencing outcomes
Indicative assessment
Task | % of module mark |
---|---|
Essay/coursework | 20 |
Essay/coursework | 80 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task | % of module mark |
---|---|
Essay/coursework | 20 |
Essay/coursework | 80 |
Module feedback
Feedback will be given in accordance with the University Policy on feedback in the Guide to Assessment as well as in line with the School policy.
Indicative reading
Boeger, N. and Sanchez-Graells, A. (2019) Classic Debates in Public Service Outsourcing, University of Bristol Law Research Paper Series No 8.
Gash, T., N. Panchamia, S. Sims and L. Hotson (2013). Making Public Services Markets Work: Professionalising government’s approach to commissioning and market stewardship, Institute for Government.
Levi-Faur, D (Ed.), (2012) The Oxford Handbook of Governance, Oxford: OUP