Teaching

Dr. Merritt teaches courses in the Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs and Master of Public Affairs programs in the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI. Regardless of the student audience or course topic, his pedagogical philosophy centers on creating a critical-thinking classroom environment by

  • Providing students with theoretical and empirical foundations on which to understand complex and practically relevant public affairs concepts,
  • Bridging the gap between public affairs theories and practices through in-class simulations, case studies, and interactive activities, and
  • Offering research-intensive course assignments which emphasize practical application and professional development.

Dr. Merritt's scholarly expertise in publicness theory and awareness of the variety of student job placements upon graduation have motivated him to develop students' leadership, management, and collaborative competencies that--while particularly germane to careers in public service--are also applicable to the private and nonprofit sectors.