Roadmap: Decision Making

Decision Making (How do we decide?)

Many variables go into a decision about which intervention to adopt and implement. By using both efficacy research (how interventions perform in highly controlled settings) and effectiveness research (how interventions perform under real-world conditions in which there is minimal control for student characteristics, setting features, resource demands, and social contingencies), educators can significantly increase the likelihood of making improved choices to better meet the needs of students.

An evidence-based decision-making framework emphasizes three components: (1) best available evidence, (2) client values, and (3) professional judgment. By examining efficacy research and effectiveness research, educators can more effectively use the existing knowledge base.