Decision Making and Problem-Solving: Implications for Learning Design

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Thirteen
  In Roundtable Session: Design Approaches and Cases (Table 13)

Abstract

Educators are increasingly applying problem-solving through instructional strategies, such as inquiry-based learning. An important aspect of problem-solving includes the decision-making process and the rationale for learners’ choices. Although prior models of learning design have indeed yielded important insight in other areas of problem-solving (e.g - scaffolding, argumentation, reflection), decision-making theory has only been implicitly referenced. To better apply decision-making and apply it towards design, the article reviews the theoretical basis of the following approaches: normative, descriptive, prescriptive, and case-based decision-making theory (CBDT). For each approach, an example is included that instantiates the theory within learning design. The article concludes with a discussion of how decision-making theory aligns with existing theories that are foundational to problem-solving, along implications for learning design.

Authors

• Andrew Tawfik, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author

• Jessica Gatewood, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author