Handbook

Future systems engineers and project managers have to deal with increasingly complex problems that extend beyond their specific field knowledge. Systems thinking is recognized as a critical and essential competency for systems engineers and project managers by many Australian and international professional bodies (e.g. INCOSE Systems Engineers Competency Framework). This course aims to build students fundamental understanding of the systems thinking/system dynamics approach, as well as their capacity to use this approach to critically analyse problematic issues. The course is relevant and critical to all areas and applications related to systems engineering and project management.

This course provides ‘know-how’ knowledge and skills for developing and using systems thinking/system dynamics approach to deal with complexities arising from the interactions between human, technological, and decision making factors. This is achieved by offering:

•             A fundamental understanding of systems thinking/system dynamics concepts and principles

•             A practice-oriented focus (i.e. problem solving exercises, showcases)

•             A learning by doing experience (i.e. case studies-based assignment)