Re-Thinking Systems

Covers key principles and concepts with complex adaptive systems in relation to human-centered design.

Objective & Outcomes

Even though it is well acknowledged that the unprecedented interconnectivity of the world economy, the global society, and the natural environment has a direct impact on the local lives and well-being of communities, change-makers such as corporations, NGOs, investors, entrepreneurs, and government agencies struggle to understand how these forces can shape contexts, circumstances, and experiences. Thus, their ability to envision sustainable solutions and livelihoods are limited.

In this course, students will learn key principles and concepts on complex adaptive systems in relation to design in systems for understanding how innovation practices are shaping value creation and new economies.

Typical Schedule

Session 1: Complex Adaptive Systems, Complex Spaces of Innovation & Agent-Based Design
Session 2: Interaction & Arrangement of Systems
Session 3: Integration & Dynamics of Systems
Session 4: Interconnectivity & Anatomy of Systems
Session 5: Iteration, Cycles of Systems & Equity Framework
Session 6: Leverage Points & What IF Questions
Session 7: System Narratives & Transformation
Session 8: Reframing Systems & Frameworks Application
Session 9-13: Reframing Systems: Working Session