Exemplar Type: MODULE
Title: Systems Thinking
Grades: Undergraduate
Discipline: Interdisciplinary, Science
Submitted By: Lisa Gilbert
Courtesy Of: InTeGrate at Carleton College
Summary The Systems Thinking Module provides a foundation for systems thinking throughout the InTeGrate materials. Units 1 and 2 of this module are designed to be used early within a course and then reinforced later; Units 3-5 give students data-rich modeling experiences; Unit 6 is an interactive summative activity. Specifically, this module prepares students to address complex systems issues for a sustainable future by 1) identifying the parts of a system and explaining how the parts interact, 2) developing skills to model complex systems using data and examples relevant to the course and 3) applying a systems approach to evaluate a societal challenge. This InTeGrate module fills a key need to educate students about the importance of the systems approach, uses examples that involve data and the construction and manipulation of systems models, and helps students approach complex, interdisciplinary problems.
BENCHMARKS REPRESENTED IN THIS EXEMPLAR
Big Ideas
All systems have limits. Healthy systems live within their limits. Tap the power of limits
We are all in this together: We are interdependent on each other and on the natural systems
The significant problems we face can’t be solved with the same thinking we used to create them. Our prior experiences with the world create cognitive frameworks (also known as mental models/maps) that inform what we can perceive. They shape our behavior and our behavior causes results. If we want to produce different results, it all begins with a change in thinking
Applied Knowledge and Actions
System Dynamics and Change
Multiple Perspectives
Higher Order Thinking Skills
Mindful: Metacognition
Hands On Skills: Computer Modeling
Hands On Skills: Design/Drawing
Dispositions
Efficacious
Motivated
Collaborative
Applications and Actions
Listen to one another
Community Connections
Evaluate progress (read the feedback), reflect, adjust, and continually improve performance