Publication Details |
| Category | Text Publication |
| Reference Category | Journals |
| DOI | 10.48446/opus-15901 |
| Title (Primary) | Understanding the world wide web of systems? - The need for systemic thinking in higher education |
| Author | Eichentopf, I.-M.; Kasperidus, H.D. |
| Source Titel | NextGen Scientific Review |
| Year | 2025 |
| Department | NSF |
| Volume | 3 |
| Page From | 16 |
| Page To | 24 |
| Language | englisch |
| Topic | T5 Future Landscapes |
| Keywords | Systemdenken; System Dynamics; Nachhaltigkeit; Technikbewertung |
| Abstract | In a world increasingly characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), the ability to think systemically is becoming essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change. This paper explores the importance of integrating systems thinking and system dynamics into higher education, particularly within sustainability-focused programs like Energy and Environmental Management at Mittweida University of Applied Sciences. Through a survey and a series of tasks given to students of this program, the study assesses their current abilities in systems thinking. The findings reveal significant gaps in students' understanding of basic stockflow problems, underscoring the need for more effective teaching methods that go beyond the approaches already used. While students recognize the relevance of systems thinking for their future careers, their performance on practical tasks shows significant weaknesses in practical application. The study suggests that continuous, hands-on learning experiences are crucial for developing the cognitive skills necessary to navigate complex, interconnected systems. The research concludes that a more comprehensive and interdisciplinary educational approach is needed to cultivate the systems thinking abilities required to address the multifaceted challenges posed by global issues like climate change. |
| Persistent UFZ Identifier | https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=31886 |
| Eichentopf, I.-M., Kasperidus, H.D. (2025): Understanding the world wide web of systems? - The need for systemic thinking in higher education NextGen Scientific Review 3 , 16 - 24 10.48446/opus-15901 |
|