Systems thinking tools can be applied to a wide range of complex and uncertain situations. While earlier webinars in this series have focused on major systems methods (e.g., Soft Systems Methodology, the Viable System Model, System Dynamics, and Critical Systems Heuristics), not every systems-based intervention requires a large, resource-intensive approach.

This two-part webinar series introduces a set of lighter‑weight ‘tools for general or shared understanding’ that can be used across different contexts and scales to help:

• Bring small groups together and structure discussion
• Explore and interpret multiple perspectives in complex situations
• Build shared language and facilitate communication of perspectives
• Support divergent, convergent and creative thinking
• Identify, clarify and plan ways forward in tackling complex public health challenges

Who are these sessions for?

• Researchers, students and practitioners interested in applying systems thinking to public health contexts.
• Public health professionals working in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
• Community partners and practitioners engaged in health-systems improvement.
• Anyone curious about using systems approaches to support reflective inquiry.
  
  

Session 1: Introduction to Systems Tools for General Understanding

What will we cover in this session?

The aim of this session is to introduce a suite of tools designed to help groups develop a shared understanding of complex problematic situations.

Tools introduced include: (1) rich pictures, (2) multi-perspective ‘pig’ model, (3) context diagram, (4) concept maps, (5) cognitive maps, (6) six questions and (7) laddering.