Social Policy Simulation Database and Model (SPSD/M) training

The SPSD/M a complex multidisciplinary analytical tool which, while easily used, requires significant experience to master. Statistics Canada is committed to working with licensees of the SPSD/M in order to help them get the maximum benefit from the model and to do so in a flexible way that is most beneficial to individual client’s research and personnel needs. To this end we have two training options to help develop the knowledge and skills to effectively employ the model and provide advice on how to best apply the SPSD/M to approach your policy research questions.

Training seminars

These courses are offered in English and French in Ottawa twice per year. A minimum of participants is required to hold a course (courses will be cancelled if there is not enough registrations less than 15 working days prior to the date of the course). This training can also been given at a client’s site if suitable facilities are available.

The next scheduled courses:

Course: SPSD/M Black Box Training Seminar - English
Dates: to be announced
Language: English
Location: Ottawa - Statistics Canada
Duration: 2 days
Cost: $600
Course Description

Course: SPSD/M Black Box Training Seminar - French
Dates: to be announced
Language: French
Location: Ottawa - Statistics Canada
Duration: 2 days
Cost: $600

NEW - SPSD/M Glass Box Training
Course: SPSD/M Glass Box - English
Date: to be announced
Language: English
Location: Ottawa - Statistics Canada
Duration: 1 day
Cost: $300
Course Description

Course: SPSD/M Glass Box - French
Date: to be announced
Language: French
Location: Ottawa - Statistics Canada
Duration: 1 day
Cost: $300

To register, simply send an e-mail message to spsdm@statcan.gc.ca
(Please note that, generally, our seminars are offered in the spring and fall of each year.)

In-house training

If an organization or individual has either a special project they wish to use the model for, or a specific advanced aspect of model use they wish to master (i.e. stochastic imputation) arrangements can be made for one-on-one training. In most of these cases an analyst works with our microsimulation team in Ottawa. The access to a group of microsimulation and quantitative policy analysis oriented professionals is an added benefit of this type of training. It is also possible for a Statistics Canada microsimulation analyst to visit a client’s site. The cost of this service usually starts at $900 per day.