Linda, two thoughts occurred to me on reading your email:
1) Since
you’ve already created a sense in the group of what systems thinking is, that is, since you’ve “branded” it in their minds, rather than the term “system dynamics” use Systems Thinking
aided by Simulation (STim), that is, STim = system dynamics. Then you’re building on the systems thinking “branding” you’ve already developed in their minds by just adding simulation to that branding.
That is, you’re scaffolding their learning. Also, that STim sounds like STEM may not be a bad feature of the acronym in that it can open useful conversations.
2) Two
organizations probably could provide helpful guidance for what you’re trying to do:
b. Since
SparkShare is in the Boston area, I think there are some K-12 teachers in the area who are knowledgeable on engaging kids with STim. Folks at the Creative
Learning Exchange (CLE) could probably hook you to connect with these teachers.
I hope the above is useful.
Paul
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I’m writing to ask your thoughts on ways to bridge teens and adults from systems thinking experience to systems dynamics.
A few weeks back, I ran a one-day youth summit on systems change for a local group called SparkShare.
We had 13 working groups from the Boston area focus on solving complex challenges in their communities — from vaping, substance abuse and racial bias to youth employment and safer streets. I worked with each group in advance to identify a strong systems
statement and key factors. During the summit, I introduced the concept of systems and systems change, and gave them a five-step tool (inspired by Michael Goodman and Daniel Kim) to address the real-world challenges. We built in plenty of opportunities to
cross-pollinate between and among, make real commitments for action, and have fun.
You can see a
short video clip of the young people’s reaction to the day. Kind of electric!
As you can see, a number of these teens (and some of the adults) soaked in the systems approach and were ready for more. Many of these young people participate in these Sparkshare summits
over the course of three years or more. I think the opportunity to help some of the bridge to the practical of more rigorous system dynamics modeling is possible. The question is: how to make that happen? They are in schools around Boston with no explicit
system dynamics curriculum.
I’m looking for two things:
-
High-impact, long-term ways for these students to develop real systems dynamics skill, beyond the introductory level
-
Access to a pod (or posse?) of system dynamics modelers who will help to frame and model their issues to make their conversations with community leaders and policy makers more robust.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Wishing you all happy, healthy and peace-filled holidays. :-)
Just arrived! Monument
Maker: "This marvelous book is deserving of your love. See to it that your love is worthy of it.” — Betsy Bird
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