Canadian Government

Abstract

Canada has a long history of stable, democratic governments. That history has not been without its challenges. In the present age, governments are faced with many issues and concerns. In light of this, it is vitally important that Canadians understand our system of government and the role we all play in determining the direction of our country. This course endeavors to provide the basics of Canadian government; its foundations, its structures, its institutions, and its processes. This course is designed to enable the student to understand the operation, structure, function and interaction of the three levels of government.

Learning Objectives Describe various structures, components, and events within government and how these impact us as Canadian citizens. Describe how the Canadian political system works and how the three levels and branches of government interact as set out by Canada's constitution and its conventions. Outline the basic tenets of law in the Canadian context. Define and describe public administration in the Canadian context. Examine issues that impact Indigenous governance and describe some of the historical context that still influences the relationship between First Nations people and the Canadian government.