What is Systems Thinking?
Systems Thinking is a mindset - a way of seeing, thinking and approaching the world that embraces and understands interconnectedness. It also refers to a set of concepts and easily applied tools that help us understand how the pieces fit together, transforming the way we think about problem solving.
Systems thinking enables us to understand complex problems and changes the way we approach them. Applying systems thinking “habits” and tools can help us better understand the consequences of interconnectedness, especially in the context of equity and sustainability issues.
Applying a systems thinking approach helps to ensure we do not produce more problems than we solve. When you learn to think in systems you discover how complex patterns of behaviour can arise from simple structures and simple rules. You develop a deeper understanding of how the world works and you start to see the systems around you in a new light. Through this, you begin to develop a new mental framework for analyzing complex problems - whether they be in your family, your workplace, your country, or global in scale.
Humber College
Connecting to the Humber Learning Outcomes
The Humber Learning Outcomes framework consists of critical skills and mindsets essential to the success of graduates in their careers and personal lives, identified by faculty, staff, students, and industry partners. Through more than 20 consultations, the concept of systems thinking was repeatedly emphasized as a crucial skill for the future workforce to understand and embody.
In addition to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, Sustainability, and Indigenous Ways of Being, Knowing and Doing, Systems Thinking is fundamental to the prosperity and well-being of individuals and communities. Our goal is to ensure our learners adopt a sustainability mindset, which involves recognizing the interconnectivity of all things. As systems thinkers, they approach challenges with an awareness of the limits of their own knowledge and an openness to multiple perspectives. They exhibit curiosity, empathy, and bravery as they work to break down silos and approach problems in a holistic manner, asking critical questions such as "what if?". These attributes align with the Humber Learning Outcomes framework.
Explore the HLO framework now to understand what the sustainability mindset should look like at Humber.
The toolkit aims to enhance the understanding of systems thinking and provide a framework for comprehending complex problems, promoting a holistic approach to problem-solving that considers the interconnectedness of various components. Applying systems thinking concepts to help learners develop critical thinking skills that can benefit them academically and professionally, as well as promote equity and sustainability, two critical issues in today's world.
This toolkit includes information on how to incorporate systems thinking into different areas of your course. Please refer to the main page for more information regarding:
- The Parts of a System
- Habits of a Systems Thinker
- Incorporating Systems Thinking into Curriculum
- Integrating Systems Thinking into Course Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of reviewing this toolkit you will be able to
- explain the concept of systems thinking and reflect on how it applies to your sector/discipline
- apply key concepts in systems thinking to a complex problem in your discipline/sector through the use of systems thinking exercises
- design a new student learning experience that enables learners to practice systems thinking principles using systems thinking tools (Iceberg, Connected Circle)
- identify four habits of a systems thinker
- identify relevant resources for further information on systems thinking