Strengthening science-informed decision-making: A how to guide

Overview

Description

This is an introductory course designed to strengthen science-informed government decision-making.  Science may be needed to support a given path forward, to disprove the value of a proposed course of action, or to help find a solution where one does not yet exist. Regardless of the situation, if the best available science is not appropriately assessed and incorporated into decision-making, there is a risk that decisions may not achieve the desired outcomes. Moreover, transparently recording and reporting the science that was considered during deliberations raises public trust in government decision-making.

The focus of this course is science-informed decision-making.  For individuals presenting the science, this course is designed to help pinpoint key pieces of information that are most relevant to the decision under consideration and to better understand the government context. For individuals using the science, the course will reinforce key questions to ask so your decisions appropriately reflect the quality and uncertainty of the best available scientific evidence.

By the end of this course, it is expected that you will have greater confidence in your ability to:

1)    engage in effective science-policy conversations

2)    understand how scientific uncertainty affects government decisions

3)    understand and communicate the quality and integrity of scientific evidence

 

The module is divided into 3 parts: (1) a short self-assessment; (2) a case-based learning module; and (3) a final assessment of the course which, when completed, will allow you to download a Certificate of Completion.  

 

This course was sponsored by Health Canada’s Strategic Policy Branch as part of the implementation of Health Canada’s Framework for Science and Research Excellence. Produced in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Science Advisor. 2022.