COURSE OVERVIEW

This course is designed to provide participants with a detailed and up-to-date overview of Causal Reasoning Investigation. It covers the principles and methodologies used in causal investigation focusing on logic, evidence gathering and hypothesis testing; the different types of causes and the various causal models and frameworks used to structure investigations; and the steps for initiating a causal reasoning investigation, address ethical considerations in investigations and recognizing and mitigating biases in causal reasoning.
Further, the course will also discuss the data collection strategies, analyzing data for causalities and using technology in investigations; developing and prioritizing hypotheses based on available data and causal reasoning principles; the methods for testing hypotheses through experiments, simulations or further data analysis; the best practices for documenting investigative findings, analyses and the rationale behind identified causes; creating and using fishbone diagrams (Ishikawa) for identifying potential causes of a problem; and constructing and analyzing fault trees to identify root causes and contributing factors of failures or events.
During this interactive course, participants will learn the Bow-Tie analysis, comparative analysis techniques and scenario analysis; the causality in complex systems including systemic interactions and emergent behaviors; the counterfactual reasoning and its application in understanding how different actions might have changed outcomes; investigating human factors and organizational behaviors as causes in events including error analysis and cultural assessments; the legal and regulatory implications of causal findings including liability and compliance issues; using causal reasoning for predictive purposes including risk assessment and prevention strategies; designing an investigation plan that efficiently leads to identifying root causes and contributing factors; the appropriate strategies for communicating investigation findings effectively to different audiences including report writing and presentation skills; translating investigation findings into actionable corrective and preventive measures; the procedures for monitoring the effectiveness of implemented actions and conducting follow-up investigations if necessary; and developing individual and team skills in causal reasoning and investigation.