Module dates: April19 - October19
The module was split into two streams:
- tools stream
- people stream
The tools stream covered the following systems tools: system dynamics, Virtual Systems Model (VSM), Strategic Options Development and Analysis (SODA), Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and Critical Systems Heuristics. Some I took to like a duck to water especially VSM and SSM: not surprising then that these were the ones which featured in my EMA. Others less so - perhaps I would appreciate them more if I'd been able to be with someone to see them used in practice - as opposed to remote learning where this is more difficult. However there was a memorable occasion when out for a bike ride I found myself constructing a cause and effect diagram to understand the interdependencies of housebuilding and traffic on single track roads.
I found the people stream difficult to apply. The content was fascinating and it gave me a real appreciation of how people's preferences and ways of thinking can impact on managing change. Some of the material was tangible (eg MBTI) some less so. For example 'metaphor' cropped up all through the stream but I found it challenging to pin it down to specifics - especially when writing assignments.
My highlight of the module has to be reading Donella Meadows and my favourite quote remains:
"We can't control systems or figure them out. But we can dance with them!"
Now looking forward to a proper break of a few weeks before starting my next module: BB844 Marketing in the 21st Century.
