Systems thinking has its roots in the field of systems dynamics founded in 1956 by MIT professor Jay Forrester. Systems dynamics is an approach used to observe any complex organization in a comprehensive manner; seeking to understand its structure, the interconnections between all it components and how changes in any area affect the whole system and its constituent parts over time. Instead of isolating small parts of a system, systems thinking works by expanding one’s view to take into account larger and larger numbers of components, processes and interactions among natural and social systems.

A system is a collection of interrelated parts or components (e.g., objects, materials, processes, ideas, rules, or people) and processes (energy flow) that interact with each other to function as a distinguishable whole. These interconnected parts work together in ways that cannot be fully understood by examining the individual components as separate elements. Systems are distinguished by the outcome of the interactions among the components and processes.

The scientific idea of a system implies detailed attention to inputs and outputs and interactions among the system’s components. A system is comprised of components, a specific function, inputs – things that influence the system, outputs – things that the system influences, and feedback from the environment that provides information about outputs, helps to maintain stability and determines the system’s behavior over time.

Students can apply higher –level thinking and creative problem solving when they explore the interface between natural and social systems that comprise their community. They develop a more comprehensive understanding of the complexity of real-world concerns as they investigate how their natural surroundings interact with the diverse cultural, economic, and political systems. In addition, students can apply their knowledge and skills, from a variety of subject areas, to studying the systems that define their community.

The Environment and Ecology Standards take a look at the real world and how it works. Systems are found in the natural as well as the social world we live in. In order to teach about the environment we must have students look at how the things we do impact both systems. These impacts can be positive as well as negative. In order to make informed decisions we must look at complex issues in a much broader light. Each part of a system is connected and therefore affected. Here are some systems to consider when writing your lesson plans and planned units.

Lieberman, Gerald and Hoody, Linda.  Closing the Achievement: Using the Environment as an Integrating Context for Learning, 1998.

Systems 

The Environment and Ecology Standards take a look at the real world and how it works.  Systems are found in the natural as well as the social world we live in.   In order to teach about the environment we must have students look at how the things we do impact both systems.  These impacts can be positive as well as negative.  In order to make informed decisions we must look at complex issues in a much broader light.  Each part of a system is connected and therefore affected.  Here are some systems to consider when writing your lesson plans and planned unit.