Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
HOW IS SYSTEMS THINKING TAUGHT? A LITERATURE REVIEW
Raspini, Jéssica Prats; Silva, Maria Angélica Gomes da; Mendibil, Kepa
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Bohemia, Erik; Buck, Lyndon; Grierson, Hilary
Author:
Series:
E&PDE
Institution:
Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil; Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro; University of Strathclyde
Page(s):
505 - 510
DOI number:
ISBN:
3005-4753
ISSN:
978-1-912254-22-4
Abstract:
With a growing demand by industry and society for systems thinking skills and capabilities, there is a pressing need to ensure that there are appropriate educational strategies to address this gap in skills. Systems thinking, an integrated approach to understanding complex issues, is essential for stimulating critical thinking and preparing students to navigate contemporary challenges. Despite its recognized importance, few studies provide an in-depth analysis of the efficacy of teaching methods in developing systems thinking competencies. This paper addresses this gap by presenting a systematic literature review of systems thinking educational studies from 2000 to April 2024, specifically focusing on (i) how systems thinking is being taught and (ii) the teaching methods and contents that are used to teach this subject. Our review of 57 articles reveals that most systems thinking teaching methods consist of brief, activity-based interventions, typically lasting one to few days, and are predominantly applied in higher education and engineering contexts. These findings are discussed, and we propose a set of guidelines for future research to advance systems thinking education and enable capacity building of systems thinking skills and competencies.
Keywords:
