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Suggested framework for developing
issues analysis and decision-making skills over the Advanced GCE course
1
What is the process of decision making?
à
problem identification à
evaluation of evidence à
weighing up of alternatives à
decision making à
justification and explanation of results.
2
A study of the players in decision making and
their likely values position in a variety of scenarios
a
global agencies
b
international agencies
c
national and local government (including
government agencies such as the Environment Agency or National Parks
Authorities)
d
multinational and other business enterprises
e
non-governmental organisations
f
pressure groups
g
interested individuals.
3
The psychology of decision making
Understanding of
the behavioural approach (optimisers and satisficers). Pred’s behavioural
matrix. Role of personal preference and perception.
4
The politics and economics of decision making
in local,
regional, national and international
scenarios
a
The importance of economics in determining
outcomes (eg in coastal management).
b
The role of politics (including party politics)
in influencing outcomes (eg in bypass routes or industrial location).
c
The role of informal green groups eg ‘eco-warriors’.
5
Decision making in an environmental context
a
The major standpoints – conservation v
exploitation, sustainability v growth, business as usual v sustainable options.
Exploration of significance, feasibility etc of options.
b
Environmental impact analysis – assessment of
likely improvement, or maintenance or deterioration with relation to existing
situation of possible actions.
c
Role of environmental legislation at local,
regional, national and global scales.
d
Establishment of sustainability targets
(conservation of resources, enhancing environmental quality, balanced
development, social equity, community participation goals).
6
Decision making and problem solving skills and
techniques
a
Developing and using techniques of
decision-making. Use of tabulation, scaling, weighting, matrices, ranking,
charting, sieve mapping, critical path analysis, cost benefit analysis,
environmental impact analysis, monitoring techniques.
b
Using literary, graphical, numerical, IT skills
to analyse resources, evaluate options, and assess opinions. |
