ETHx: Beyond Systems Thinking

We need cultural and mental transformation to deal with the current global polycrisis. This MOOC is the second of four MOOCs to hybridize science, design, and transformative praxis. This joint learning journey is a fluid, intervention-driven, synergistic process addressing complex challenges with a regional focus. It entails a critical look at systems thinking, tools to navigate complexity, basics of social network analysis, resilience assessment, circularities, and systemic innovation.

Beyond Systems Thinking

Part of the "Designing Resilient Regenerative Systems" MOOC series

Course Description

"Beyond Systems Thinking" is an innovative and transformative course that delves into the complexities of today's most pressing global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and energy dependencies. This course offers a unique blend of scientific reasoning and designerly practices to address these complex issues. It equips learners with the tools and mindset necessary to navigate uncertainty, foster resilience, and drive systemic innovation in an ever-changing world.

What Students Will Learn

Critical understanding of systems thinking and its applications
Techniques for navigating complexity, including the "view from above" practice
Transformative perspectives on resilience
Basics of social network analysis for designing in complex systems
Expanded concepts of circular economy across various scales
Approaches to systemic innovation
Real-world applications through case studies from living systems labs across Europe

Prerequisites

While there are no strict prerequisites, students should:

Be curious and open to expanding their expertise
Have a willingness to engage in philosophical discourse and designerly practices
Be motivated to contribute to a more resilient and regenerative world
Be ready to connect with stakeholders in their region
Be open to mental, physical, and social challenges

It is recommended, but not required, to have completed MOOC 1 of the series.

Course Coverage

Critical analysis of systems thinking
"View from above" practices for navigating complexity
Transformative resilience concepts
Introduction to social network analysis
Circular economy principles and applications
Systemic innovation approaches
Real-world case studies from living systems labs
Practical engagement through Systemic Cycles and Gigamapping

Target Audience

Current science or engineering students from various disciplines
Design students, architects, landscape planners, and urban planners
Professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and redirect their careers
Anyone interested in contributing to a more resilient and regenerative world

Real-World Applications

Developing innovative solutions for complex environmental and social challenges
Enhancing decision-making processes in policy and business
Designing more sustainable and resilient systems in various fields
Creating and managing circular economy initiatives
Fostering community engagement and collaboration for systemic change
Leading transformative projects in regional and global contexts

Course Structure

Introduction to complexity and systems thinking
"View from above" practices
Transformative resilience
Social network analysis
Circular economy concepts and applications
Systemic innovation
Case studies from living systems labs
Practical engagement through Systemic Cycles and Gigamapping
Personal QUEST development for transformative change

This course offers a unique opportunity to develop the skills and mindset necessary to become a leader in transformative change towards regeneration, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application in real-world contexts.