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Systems Thinking for a Complex World

Systems Thinking course aims to introduce the principles and the qualitative tools of Systems Thinking to understand how feedback loops within systems influence their behaviour over time. This course is designed to help learners develop skills for managing complex problems by understanding the behaviour of systems.

Next Dates: Ongoing
Duration: 10 hours
Delivery mode: Online
Location: -

Price (AUD inc. GST): $650
Spots remaining: AVAILABLE

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Course summary

Tools for complex problem-solving

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. You'll develop skills for managing complex problems by understanding the behaviour of systems.

This is a self-paced course delivered entirely online. The course consists of 7 modules including pre-recorded video lessons and supplementary resources. You can register at any time and will receive three months access to complete the course.

Who will benefit

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.

Course is suitable for

Professionals, researchers and students working with complex problems across government, industry and academia.
No prior experience in systems thinking is required.

Delivered by experts

Dr Sondoss El Sawah

Facilitator

Sondoss is an Associate Professor of Systems and Computing and the Director of the Capability Systems Centre at University of New South Wales.
Sondoss led the systems engineering discipline at UNSW Canberra. Her research program focuses on understanding the behaviour of large complex problems and systemic risks that arise from the interactions between social, technological and environmental systems.
She is an expert on the application of systems methodologies to support design, decision making and education. She has published widely including journal articles, conference papers, book chapters and technical reports.
Building on her academic achievements, Sondoss been recognised as a thought leader in her scientific fields in Australia and internationally.
She is elected as a Distinguished Fellow of the Modelling and Simulation Society of Australia and New Zealand (MSSANZ). Sondoss is a Senior Editor of the Journal of Environmental Modelling and Software and the Journal of Group Decision and Negotiation.

Dr Ebrahim Aly

Facilitator

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.

About the course

Modelling complexity through systems thinking

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.

Why enrol in this course

Build essential problem-solving skills

Gain tools to understand and address complex, interconnected challenges.

Enhance decision-making

Develop a holistic perspective that helps anticipate unintended consequences and design better interventions.

Apply systems thinking to real work

Learn techniques that you can immediately use in strategic planning, project management and organisational challenges.

Develop communication and collaboration skills

Improve your ability to explain system behaviour and work effectively with stakeholders.

Key features

Understand complexity and systems behaviour

Learn core concepts of systems and how interactions determine behaviour over time.

Practical systems tools

Study causal loop diagrams, feedback loops, system archetypes and leverage points to analyse real problems.

Self-paced online delivery

Complete the course entirely online on your own schedule with flexible access over three months.

Broad applicability

Content is relevant across sectors including business, engineering, public policy and health.

Learning outcomes

Core systems thinking capabilities

By completing this course, you will develop a strong foundation in systems thinking and its application to complex problem-solving. You’ll learn how to analyse systems, identify interdependencies and feedback loops, and apply systems thinking tools to support better decision-making across a range of contexts.

You’ll also build the capability to communicate systems insights effectively and recognise the potential unintended consequences of actions within complex systems.

What you'll learn

Skills/competencies/knowledge that would be gained through this course:

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.