Decisions, Decisions…
This exercise explores the influence of how options are presented on decision-making. Participants will choose between two options that have identical outcomes but are framed differently, highlighting the framing effect in decision-making.
How to run it
- 1
Prepare two versions of the handout: one positively framed and one negatively framed. Use different colors for each version.
- 2
Distribute one handout from the mixed stack to each participant, ensuring they think they all received the same document.
- 3
Instruct participants to independently read the problem and choose the best option within two minutes.
- 4
Ask for a show of hands to determine how many selected each program based on its color.
- 5
Reveal that two different versions were distributed and that both options have the same outcomes.
- 6
Discuss how the framing led to different selection patterns among the participants.
Tips
Be mindful of the language you use during the framing; it directly affects decisions.
Create a safe environment for open discussion during the debrief.
Encourage participants to share their feelings about their choices to deepen the learning experience.
Variations
This method can be adapted by introducing more than two options or using other framing techniques to explore different aspects of decision-making.
Where it fits
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Try it freeMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from SessionLab. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.