The Decision Compass

A high-school activity that makes personal priorities visible while considering an option; it is not a scoring test.

This content is an original draft whose PDR expert review is not complete. Evaluate it against your school's guidance principles and the group's needs before using it.

Learning objective

The learner compares an education or exploration option using at least three self-chosen criteria and forms a next question while accepting that a decision can change.

MEB / DİSREP ↗

Age suitability

High school, grades 9–12

Materials

Decision Compass worksheet · Pencil or colored pencil · Optional two blank option cards

Activity flow

01
Name the options
The facilitator explains that the compass does not find a right answer; it organizes thinking. The learner may write a real choice, an area of curiosity, or two imaginary options without giving personal history.
02
Choose criteria
The learner selects three criteria that might matter, such as learning style, time, collaboration, or contribution to the community. Beside each criterion, they add a short answer or symbol for “Why does this matter to me?”
03
Keep the compass open
After looking at the options side by side, the learner records one fit they notice and one question that remains instead of giving a final score. Those who want to share can name a next information step; the group notes that decisions can change over time.

Inclusion and adaptations

Participation and sharing are optional, with a right to pass. Criteria do not have to be scored, and drawing or speaking is welcome; income or prestige is not treated as the one correct criterion, and no name or sensitive data is requested.

Wrap-up

A good decision is not a label fixed once and for all; it is a process of revisiting criteria and questions. This material is a draft awaiting review by a school counseling professional and is not presented as a completed activity.

Worksheet