Machinery of Government: Where Do I Fit? (FON306)

Overview

Delivery method

Virtual classroom

Duration

4.5 hours (3 sessions of 1.5 hours)

Audience

Employees

Description

Understanding the mechanics of how government works is valuable knowledge for public servants at all levels. This course provides an opportunity for public servants to better understand their role and impact within the structure and context of the federal government. Participants will learn how their contributions help to achieve the goals of government, whether this be implementing programs or services, developing policy, or evaluating the work of government.

Topics include:

• reviewing the structure of government
• examining the decision-making process of Parliament
• examining the roles of ministers and the Cabinet
• comparing the roles of departments, agencies and Crown corporations
• exploring the roles of central agencies and how they work together

Notes:

This course is divided into three 90-minute sessions, offered on the same day of the week, one week apart, over 3 weeks.

The course will benefit learners who:

• implement government programs and services
• support the implementation of government programs and services
• maintain and develop policy
• monitor and evaluate the work of government

The success of this course depends largely upon participant engagement. Rather than focusing on a formal presentation, the course relies on open group discussions about the assigned reading materials. Participants must therefore complete the pre-course readings, ask questions and raise points of discussion during the virtual sessions. The facilitator will offer answers or clarifications during the discussions and encourage participants to reflect on how the course content applies to their different roles throughout the public service.

Learners who are unable to commit to taking an active role in the group are advised to delay registering until their schedule can better permit their full participation.

Related courses:

Learning products that may be useful before taking this course include:

• Who We Work For (FON304)
• Values and Ethics Foundations For Employees (FON301)
• How the Canadian Government Works: Setting the Stage for Results (FON305)
• Spin the Westminster Wheel to Gage Your Knowledge! (FON307)
• The System of Government from a Financial Perspective (COR209)
• Understanding Federal-Provincial-Territorial Relationships (FON1-J10)
• Case Study on Biometric Screening (IRCC) (FON1-J11)

Legacy course code: G333