Teaching Decision Making

Here are some insights from trusted experts on teaching decision-making:

1. Understanding Irrationality: Annie Duke discusses the need to teach decision-making, noting that historically, it was assumed people were rational decision-makers. However, research by Kahneman, Tversky, and Thaler revealed predictable irrationalities. The Alliance for Decision Education strives to update K-12 education to include current scientific insights about decision-making 1 2.

2. Effective Learning Models: Matt Mochary shares a method for teaching decision-making by having someone observe, practice while receiving feedback, and then teach the skill to reinforce learning. This cycle builds trust and competence in decision-making 3.

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     Decoding Decision Making

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     Better Decision Making

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     Exquisite Delegation

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     Decision-making Strategies

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     Decision Making Insights

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3. Decision Theory and Perceptual Clarity: Steven Johnson highlights breaking down complex decisions into phases and mapping variables to understand outcomes. He advocates for teaching these strategies as a required course in high school to help students better navigate complex decisions 4.

4. Historical Context in Education: Annie Duke explains that the current education system, influenced by colonial practices, lacks practical decision-making classes. Historically included subjects like trigonometry served as screens for higher pursuits and did not focus on practical skills like decision-making 2.

5. Learning from Experience: Marissa Mayer advises reflecting on past successful decisions to identify common criteria. This approach helps in applying these criteria to current decision-making challenges, enhancing the clarity and confidence in one's choices 5.

These approaches highlight the importance of teaching decision-making to improve rational thinking and equip students with essential life skills.