Decision-based Learning (DBL)

Decision-based Learning

What is DBL? Decision-based learning or DBL is a method that helps students (1) examine a problem, case study, article, work of art, etc.., (2) consider all the elements that make up that problem in order to (3) make a reasoned, rational or defensible decision.

Consider: After watching the video below, what role do you see DBL potentially playing in your instruction?

Student Perspective

What is the DBL experience like from a student perspective using the software? To experience DBL from a student’s perspective click on either the statistics or poetry or both examples below:

Statistics

Poetry

Developing DBL Instruction

What is the overall process of developing DBL instruction? Here is a video that will give you a high-level view of how you can develop DBL instruction for your course.

How is DBL instruction delivered?

During Class

You can use the DBL software as an interactive in-class experience with your students. Click below.

Before or After Class

You can use DBL as a tool for distance learning or prior/after in-class instruction. Click below.

Consider: After watching these videos, what further insights do you have on how DBL could be used in your instruction?

Creating a Decision Model

How do I create my first decision model? Here are two videos that will guide you through a process of creating a “decision path blueprint” that will later be placed in the DBL software.

Purpose of Your Decision Model

Decision Path Blueprint

Accessing & Using the DBL Software

How do I access the DBL Software, create, and name my decision model? Note, once you sign into the software, your consultant will send a request to ken_plummer@byu.edu to change your status in the software from “learner” to “author”.

Note: If you are not part of the BYU Provo community you can access the software for free by following the instructions in this video Accessing Software Outside BYU Community - YouTube. Contact Ken Plummer at ken_plummer@byu.edu for an author code.

Creating a Decision Path

How do I create my first decision path in the DBL software? Following the steps in the video to the left, you will be able to insert your outline into the DBL software.

Completing Your Decision Model

How do I complete my decision model? After you create the first path, you will create a second path using a slightly different second problem, scenario, work of art, etc. Continue creating paths until you have essentially covered the material of interest.

Note, there are two ways to approach model creation: (1) Create a simple three to seven decision point model or (2) create a large model that represents most of your thinking and then simplify it. Do whatever works best for you.

Adding Instruction

How do I add Instruction in the DBL software? Each decision point will have what we call, “a Learning Module.” This learning module will provide three things: (1) A definition for each option, (2) an example of each option, (3) an explanation connecting the example to the definition. There are some optional features you may add as shown in the video.

What are the key elements that will make DBL successful in my course?

Get the DBL Software

Additional Links