Lesson 3.1

Learners will recognize the conditions that trigger up-regulation to the Deliberate System, such as novelty, lack of progress, or unfamiliarity. They will evaluate how these conditions influence decision-making processes, focusing on the additional effort required for seniors to engage the Deliberate system due to cognitive changes.

Learners will apply the steps of the Deliberate Decision System to evaluate a complex decision-making scenario, identifying when each step is necessary and explaining how each step contributes to effective decision-making. Scenarios will include age-relevant contexts, such as health management or adapting to new technology.

Lesson 3.2

Learners will accurately identify early signs of down-regulation by the ACC, such as increased frustration, loss of focus, or reliance on habitual responses. They will implement preventative measures to maintain up-regulation, including adjusting task sequences or prioritizing unmet needs.

Learners will apply tools designed to support the ACC, such as decision matrices or needs assessments, to provide necessary context, accurate information, and clear structure. This will facilitate outcome assessment while conserving cognitive resources and promoting deliberate decision-making.

Lesson 3.3

Given a decision-making scenario, learners will correctly apply each step of the Deliberate Decision-Making Pathway (DDMP) to reach a decision. They will demonstrate an understanding of the structured process and effectively maintain ACC activation by using assistive tools to simplify and guide the decision-making sequence.

Lesson 3.4

Learners will apply prototyping techniques to test and refine solutions, ensuring continuous improvement based on observed results and feedback. Activities will include practical applications, such as creating alternative solutions for a recurring decision (e.g., meal planning or managing daily schedules).

Learners will assess the effectiveness of their decisions and actions by conducting an impact evaluation. They will reflect on outcomes and share insights, using these reflections to improve future decision-making while reinforcing the use of structured tools and processes.