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Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:08:27
Abstract
This introduction to "Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis" (MCDA) combines prescriptive Decision Theory (MAVT, MAUT) with practical application and computer-based decision support systems. Aspects of descriptive Decision Theory (psychology) are introduced. Participants apply the theory to an environmental decision problem (group work).
Objective
The main objective is to learn the theory of "Multi-Attribute Value Theory" (MAVT) and "Multi-Attribute Utility Theory" (MAUT) and apply it step-by-step using an environmental decision problem. The participants learn how to structure complex decision problems and break them down into manageable parts. An important aim is to integrate the goals and preferences of different decision makers. The participants will practice how to elicit subjective (personal) preferences from decision makers with structured interviews. They will learn to include uncertainty into decision models and test assumptions with sensitivity analyses. Participants should have an understanding of people's limitations to decision-making, based on insights from descriptive Decision Theory. They will use formal computer-based tools to integrate "objective / scientific" data with "subjective / personal" preferences to find consensus solutions that are acceptable to different decision makers.
Content
GENERAL DESCRIPTION Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis is an umbrella term for a set of methods to structure, formalize, and analyze complex decision problems involving multiple objectives (aims, criteria), many different alternatives (options, choices), and different actors which may have conflicting preferences. Uncertainty (e.g., of the future or of environmental data) adds to the complexity of environmental decisions. MCDA helps to make decision problems more transparent and guides decision makers into making rational choices. Today, MCDA-methods are being applied in many complex decision situations. This class is designed for participants interested in transdisciplinary approaches that help to better understand real-world decision problems and that contribute to finding sustainable solutions. The course focuses on "Multi-Attribute Value Theory" (MAVT) and "Multi-Attribute Utility Theory" (MAUT). It also gives a short introduction to behavioral Decision Theory, the psychological field of decision-making. STRUCTURE The course consists of a combination of lectures, exercises in the class, exercises in small groups, and reading. Some exercises are computer assisted, applying MCDA software. The participants will choose an environmental case study to work on in small groups throughout the semester. They will summarize this work in three graded reports. Additional reading from the textbook Eisenführ et al. (2010) is required. GRADING The group work consists of three written reports to be delivered at fixed dates during the semester with following grading: Report 1: 20%, Report 2: 40%, Report 3: 40%.
Resources
Lecture Notes
No script (see below)
Literature
The course is based on: Eisenführ, Franz; Weber, Martin; and Langer, Thomas (2010) Rational Decision Making. 1st edition, 447 p., Springer Verlag, ISBN 978-3-642-02850-2. Additional reading material will be recommended during the course. Lecture slides will be made available for download.
Learning Materials (Links)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 25
- Signup End
- 25.02.2022
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis
Does not take place this semester.
|
No time listed | 2 h weekly |
Offered In
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MAS in Sustainable Water Resources (The Master of Advanced Studies in Sustainable Water Resources is a 12 month full time postgraduate diploma programme. The focus of the programme is on issues of sustainability and water resources in Latin America, with special attention given to the impacts of development and climate change on water resources. The programme combines multidisciplinary coursework with high level research. Sample research topics include: water quality, water quantity, water for agriculture, water for the environment, adaptation to climate change, and integrated water resource management. Language: English. Credit hours: 66 ECTS. For further information please visit: )
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Elective Courses (Electives: 6 credits has to be achieved.)
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Doctorate Environmental Sciences (More Information at: )
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