Definition
A category of training objective in which the learner must assess a situation, weigh options, and choose an appropriate course of action, rather than simply recall information or perform a fixed procedure. Decision-based objectives are designed to develop judgment and critical thinking under realistic conditions where the correct response depends on circumstances.
Plain English
A type of learning goal where the student has to size up a situation and decide what to do, not just remember facts or follow a set sequence of steps.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor lesson plans, training objectives, and FAA discussions about teaching judgment and real-world pilot choices.
Derivation
Decision comes from a Latin idea meaning to settle something or cut off other options. Based means built on a foundation. Together, decision-based means the lesson is built around making and explaining a choice.
Why Pilots Care
Real flying constantly presents situations where there is no single rote answer — weather changes, equipment behaves unexpectedly, a passenger feels unwell. Training that is decision-based prepares pilots to think through these moments rather than freeze or default to a memorized step that doesn't fit.
Intuition Check
Decision-based does not mean guessing or choosing by personal preference. It means making a reasoned choice from the situation, safety needs, and applicable rules.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor designed a decision-based lesson in which the student had to choose whether to continue, divert, or return after encountering lowering ceilings.
Example Sentence 2
Unlike a procedure-based task, the decision-based objective tested whether the student would divert or continue based on the information available.