Discussion Papers
Quality of Life in Canada: A Citizens' Report Card Background Report
Prepared by Joseph H. Michalski, Ph.D. July 2002 for Canadian Policy Research Networks
This discussion paper explores Canada's efforts to measure quality of life beyond traditional economic indicators like GDP. Initially ranked highly by the Human Development Index (HDI) in the 1990s, Canada has since dropped to third place. Despite these rankings, many Canadians believe their quality of life could improve.
In response, the Canadian Policy Research Networks (CPRN) launched an initiative to develop national quality of life indicators, incorporating public input to reflect citizens' values. This aligns with broader efforts to use more comprehensive measures such as the Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI), which considers factors like volunteer work, crime, and pollution.
Various projects at federal, provincial, and community levels have also developed indicators to assess well-being. These initiatives aim to provide a more accurate picture of societal progress and sustainability. The CPRN's prototype of national indicators, developed through public dialogues and workshops, covers nine thematic areas and aims to guide future research and policy-making in Canada.
What Matters to Canadian NGOs on Aging: An Analysis of Five Public Dialogue Discussions
Prepared by Joseph H. Michalski, Ph.D. February 2002 for Canadian Policy Research Networks
This discussion paper summarizes the Canadian Policy Research Networks' (CPRN) project to identify priorities of Canadian NGOs on aging, aiding the federal government’s response to the UN International Strategy for Action on Ageing 2002. The report presents findings from five public dialogue discussions held between October 2001 and February 2002.
Groups included NGO representatives, with some focused on seniors' issues and others on broader topics. Sessions were facilitated by trained moderators and recorded for accuracy. Discussions centered on maximizing participation, enhancing well-being, and respecting diversity. Participants completed pre- and post-dialogue questionnaires to track their attitudes and any changes in thinking.
Results were analyzed to identify common themes, values, trends, and barriers, providing insights to guide Canadian government policies on aging.
Asking Citizens What Matters for Quality of Life in Canada: Results of CPRN’s Public Dialogue Process October 2000
Quality of Life Indicators Project
Prepared for Canadian Policy Research Networks (CPRN) by Joseph H. Michalski, Department of Sociology, Trent University, April 2001
This discussion paper summarizes public dialogues across Canada, highlighting key elements Canadians believe should be tracked to measure quality of life. Participants identified health, education, the environment, social programs, political rights, personal well-being, safe communities, and the economy as essential components.
The Canadian Policy Research Networks (CPRN) conducted 40 sessions in nine provinces with diverse groups, emphasizing the importance of access to education and health care, environmental sustainability, social programs, responsible taxation, public safety, job security, living wages, and civic participation.
Overarching themes included access, availability, personal security, and equity, with a strong belief in fairness and equal treatment. While generally satisfied with their quality of life, participants prioritized health care, education, the environment, and social programs for improvement.
The consensus was that governments, in cooperation with independent non-profits, should develop and monitor quality of life indicators, with independent reporting for accountability. The dialogues underscored the need for a comprehensive system to evaluate and enhance quality of life in Canada.
Improving Family Services Linking Outcomes and Research Results with Practice
Prepared by Joseph H. Michalski, Ph.D. October 1999 for Canadian Policy Research Networks and Family Services Canada
This discussion paper explores the tension within the helping professions between individual treatment and social reform, highlighting diverse preferences among social work students. It argues for a complementary approach, leveraging both clinical interventions and community engagement.
Amidst fiscal challenges and debates over social spending, the paper advocates for a renewed focus on community-centered initiatives. Drawing on examples from Family Service Canada's workshops, it emphasizes the benefits of such programs and the need for agencies to consider key factors in planning them.
The paper outlines three main issues discussed at the workshop: determinants of child and family health, studies of family assets and client outcomes, and utilizing research for service planning and delivery. These themes provide a framework for understanding the intersections between practice and research in agency-based settings, concluding with practical advice for enhancing agency capacity and bridging the gap between practice and research.
Values and Preferences for the “Best Policy Mix” for Canadian Children
By Joseph H. Michalski, Ph.D. CPRN Discussion Paper No. F 05 May 1999
The discussion paper explores Canadians' views on policies supporting children, based on CPRN's study involving community groups, focus groups, roundtables, and polls. Findings show a mix of agreement and division on the "best policy mix," emphasizing children's well-being, family roles, and fiscal constraints. Canadians prioritize investments in children, including reducing child poverty and supporting parental choice. Policy preferences highlight the need for comprehensive childcare and parental leave policies, with shared responsibility. Polls reveal support for public spending on children but differences on income supports and daycare provision. Integrating public opinion polling and choice deliberation techniques can enhance policymaking aligned with Canadians' values.