Evidence-Informed Decision-Making: Facts, Values, and the Scientific Method (TRN502)

Overview

Delivery method

Online

Duration

1 hour

Audience

All public servants at all levels

Description

Government policy decisions are most likely to achieve desired outcomes and instill public trust when they are informed by the best available evidence. This online self-paced course explores how scientific evidence can help translate societal values into policy objectives and effective policy decisions. Participants will learn about the scientific method and how it can be used to explain phenomena and evaluate actions meant to bring about a desired set of outcomes.

Topics include:

• defining different types of claims, including factual and value claims
• distinguishing value conflicts from scientific conflicts
• acknowledging the advantages and limitations of the scientific method