Systems Thinking for a Complex World (online, self-paced)

In this online, self-paced course, you will discover state-of-the-art concepts and tools of Systems Thinking (ST), their applications to complex decision making and problem-solving across a range of fields.

Course Summary

This course will help you develop skills for managing complex problems by understanding the behaviour of systems.

The course modules provide modelling strategies and present applications from the field of complex system modelling. This qualitative modelling tool focuses on how to tackle complex problems using ST and build problem-solving skills for a complex world.

On completion of the course you will be able to appreciate and internalise that a “system is not the sum of its parts – it is the product of their interactions.” That is, the interactions among the parts of all systems determine their behaviour over time.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course you will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of Systems Thinking.
• Analyse complex systems and identify their interdependencies and feedback loops.
• Apply Systems Thinking tools and techniques to solve problems and make decisions in various domains.
• Develop a holistic perspective and recognise the potential unintended consequences of actions taken within a system.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders and facilitate collaboration in systems-oriented projects

Who should attend

This course is designed to accommodate a diverse audience, including:

• Decision makers such as government agencies and industry managers/practitioners to help identify problem intervention and new areas of investment.
• Researchers and academics who are seeking a new research tool.
• Students studying across defence, business, public health and engineering might find these courses complement or connecting the key ideas learnt from other courses.

Prerequisite: There is no prerequisite for this course

Instructors

Dr Sondoss El Sawah

Dr El Sawah is the Director of the Capability Systems Center at UNSW Canberra. Her research and teaching programs are focused on advancing the science and practice of systems thinking, and especially its applications in public policy, engineering, and education. She has ventured on developing methods, tools, and applications to challenge and stretch the boundaries of conventional mental models beyond immediate and direct outcomes to understand the long-term and system-wide effects created by these mental models.

Dr Ebrahim Aly

Ebrahim, a Research Associate at the UNSW Canberra, brings a blend of theoretical and practical expertise to his work in complex systems modeling. His research into resilience and sustainability of such systems employs a diverse range of methodologies including causal inference, Bayesian methods, and system dynamics. Beyond his research, Ebrahim applies his knowledge to nurture the development of crucial thinking techniques and mental modeling skills in professionals. His expertise in utilising models to solve intricate problems lays a solid foundation for this endeavour. Key principles guiding his research, such as causality, uncertainty, and dynamism, mirror the core tenets of critical thinking. Ebrahim’s work illuminates how the tools and methods of complex systems modeling can be leveraged to enrich and deepen understanding, empowering professionals to navigate and shape their fields with greater acuity.