2.2.2 Readings

The readings are a collection of 35 essays which significantly expand on the systems concepts introduced in this study guide. The essays are divided according to six themes: thinking styles and models; learning and communication; problems with the way we think; flows and feedback; complexity and chaos; and co-evolution. Each essay focuses on several related concepts which are listed as keywords at the beginning and highlighted within the text. You will need to become familiar with these concepts when you engage with the activities.

In general, I have tried to flag which readings need to be read before engaging with each of the online activities, but you might well find that you need to revisit bits of text as you engage with each activity. My ambition is to give you as much flexibility as possible to direct your own study within the course. So I see no harm in you reading some of the essays some time before you need to engage with the associated activities.