Systems Thinking—Ludwig Von Bertalanffy, Peter Senge, and Donella Meadows

Abstract

In this chapter, we focus on systems thinking. A system is a group of interacting, interrelated, and interdependent components that form a complex and unified whole. Systems thinking is a way of understanding reality that emphasizes the relationships among a system’s parts that go beyond the parts themselves. We first provide brief professional profiles for three of the most relevant theorists: Ludwig von Bertalanffy, Peter Senge, and Donella Meadows. Secondly, we describe the primary issues of systems thinking and explain why this is an important theory. We have also included historical and theoretical background and relevant references. Thirdly, we make connections of the theory to science teaching and learning. We stated some advantages and challenges of systems thinking in relation to science education and related the theory to current teaching practices, and actual classroom applications. We have also provided examples of modeling practices, ideas, and programs. Lastly, we made reference to major curricula currently in use such as the Next Generation Science Standards in the USA and 2015 PISA framework. We argue that we might need to have substantial changes in our existing science curriculum in order to encompass systems thinking and the new trends in science education like the STEM movement.