Systems thinking Flashcards

(26 cards)

1
Q

Define systems thinking.

Hint: Approach that considers the interconnections within a system.

A

An approach to problem-solving that views problems as part of an overall system.

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2
Q

True or false: Systems thinking focuses only on individual components.

A

FALSE

It emphasizes the relationships and interactions between components.

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3
Q

What is a feedback loop?

A

A process where the output of a system influences its own input.

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4
Q

Fill in the blank: Systems thinking helps identify _______ in complex problems.

A

Patterns

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5
Q

What does holism mean in systems thinking?

A

The idea that systems should be viewed as wholes, not just as a collection of parts.

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6
Q

Define emergent properties.

A

Characteristics of a system that arise from the interactions of its parts.

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7
Q

True or false: Linear thinking is a key aspect of systems thinking.

A

FALSE

Systems thinking contrasts with linear thinking by considering multiple interconnections.

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8
Q

What is the iceberg model?

A

A tool used in systems thinking to visualize underlying causes and patterns.

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9
Q

Fill in the blank: Causal loop diagrams are used to represent _______ in systems.

A

Feedback loops

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10
Q

What is a system archetype?

A

Common patterns of behavior in systems that can help diagnose issues.

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11
Q

Define leverage points.

A

Places within a complex system where a small change can lead to significant effects.

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12
Q

True or false: Systems thinking is only applicable to scientific fields.

A

FALSE

It applies to business, social sciences, and environmental studies as well.

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13
Q

What is the purpose of systems mapping?

A

To visualize relationships and dynamics within a system.

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14
Q

Fill in the blank: Mental models influence how we _______ systems.

A

Perceive

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15
Q

What is dynamic complexity?

A

Complexity that arises from the interactions and feedback within a system over time.

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16
Q

Define system boundaries.

A

The limits that define what is included in a system and what is external.

17
Q

True or false: Systems thinking encourages siloed thinking.

A

FALSE

It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and understanding.

18
Q

What is a stock and flow diagram?

A

A visual representation of the quantities (stocks) and rates of change (flows) in a system.

19
Q

Fill in the blank: Interconnectedness is a key principle of _______.

A

Systems thinking

20
Q

What is the role of stakeholders in systems thinking?

A

They provide diverse perspectives and insights on the system being analyzed.

21
Q

Define system dynamics.

A

A method for studying and managing complex feedback systems over time.

22
Q

True or false: Systems thinking is a one-time analysis.

A

FALSE

It is an ongoing process that adapts to changes in the system.

23
Q

What is a system’s purpose?

A

The intended outcome or goal that the system is designed to achieve.

24
Q

Fill in the blank: Systems thinking can improve _______ in organizations.

A

Decision-making

25
What is the significance of **context** in systems thinking?
Context helps to understand how external factors influence the system's behavior.
26
Define **adaptive learning**.
The ability of a system to learn and evolve based on feedback and experiences.