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The Art of Interconnected Thinking: Starting with the Young

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  • Nam C. Nguyen

    (Systems Design and Complexity Management, University of Adelaide Business School, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia)

  • Ockie J. H. Bosch

    (Systems Design and Complexity Management, University of Adelaide Business School, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia)

Abstract

Despite many efforts to deal with the various complex issues facing our societies, plans and problem solutions are seldom long lasting, because we, as individuals, and our leaders are most likely to fall into the trap of using traditional linear thinking. It is natural and easy, but does not usually deliver long-term solutions in the context of highly complex modern communities. There is an urgent need for innovative ways of thinking and a fresh approach to dealing with the unprecedented and complex challenges facing our world. It is essential for future leaders and citizens to be prepared for “interconnected” thinking to deal with complex problems in a systemic, integrated and collaborative fashion; working together to deal with issues holistically, rather than simplistically focusing on isolated features. An educational tool (Ecopolicy) is used as the main mechanism to achieve this aim. The Ecopolicy cybernetic simulation “game” is a challenging, but playful, method by which students are introduced to the idea of thinking in terms of relations, in feedback cycles, in networks and in systems. Participation in this stimulating simulation enhances the capacity of young people to change their way of thinking. This would be expected to prepare them to develop into leaders or citizens who can effectively deal with a complex and challenging future.

Suggested Citation

  • Nam C. Nguyen & Ockie J. H. Bosch, 2014. "The Art of Interconnected Thinking: Starting with the Young," Challenges, MDPI, vol. 5(2), pages 1-21, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jchals:v:5:y:2014:i:2:p:239-259:d:39319
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Thanh V. Nguyen & Ockie J. H. Bosch & Nam C. Nguyen, 2014. "Using the Evolutionary Learning Laboratory Approach to Establish a World First Model for Integrated Governance of Haiphong, Vietnam," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 31(5), pages 627-641, September.
    2. Pop Oana, 2017. "Managing ambiguity in business. A holistic and innovative approach," Proceedings of the International Conference on Business Excellence, Sciendo, vol. 11(1), pages 843-851, July.

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