Systems theory (for Human-Technology-Design)

Objectives
The course introduces the students to the fundamental principles of systems theory, and provides a foundation for further exploration and application of systems concepts and systems thinking. The course content is a base for the students to find a suitable systems-theoretical approach for their research. A further goal is to provide the students with a framework for comparing and contrasting their own research field to other relevant research fields, and to provide ideas and frameworks for addressing systems-view paradigms in academic writing.

Learning outcomes
On completion of the course the successful student should be able to:

• Recognize systems theory in a variety of scientific fields
• Use and apply systems theory concepts and terminology correctly
• Summarise and present a systems theory
• Critically reflect on and judge the relevance of systems theories to own area
• Implement and present a systems-theoretical approach into own research
• Discuss and reason about scientific matters using a systems-theoretical approach

Learning activities

• 10 seminars, consisting of 2h lecture and 1h exercise
• 3 home assignments (A, B & C)
• 1 oral student presentations based on assignments

lars-ola.bligard@chalmers.se

Lars-Ola Bligård Cecilia Berlin