Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit combines a broad introduction to the field of 'systems thinking' with a range of systems tools and methods to help students and managers understand and deal with complex systems such as modern organisations or the global climate system. Focusing on a 'new' way of thinking about complex system problems, systems thinking is widely considered essential in understanding and effectively managing contemporary complex organisations as well as complex social and natural system problems such as poverty, environmental degradation, or climate change. The unit is presented both as a set of thinking skills and practical skills that enable policy makers, business managers and public servants to act more effectively and responsibly within their organisations and a complex world.

Objectives

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• describe and contrast Systems Thinking with more traditional approaches, as a generic set of 'new' thinking skills for understanding and dealing with a range of complex systems from modern organisations to the global climate system
• develop awareness and understanding of a range of the essential principles, tools and methods of systems thinking
• apply the systems thinking tools and methods to generate insights and learning about complex organisations and social/natural systems
• communicate systemic insights using the tools and methods of systems thinking.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours, open-book): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Jeff McLean

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

MGC2950