Overview of General Systems Theory Recording #3

Kelly Alvarado-Young

17 Oct 201613:10

Summary

TLDRKelly Alvarado's PowerPoint presentation offers an insightful overview of General Systems Theory (GST), emphasizing its holistic approach to understanding interconnected systems. The presentation delves into the life and contributions of Ludwig von Bertalanffy, the theory's foundational concepts like open and closed systems, feedback loops, and dynamic equilibrium, and its application in higher education. It also addresses criticisms and explores how GST fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and shared governance in educational settings.

Takeaways

📚 General Systems Theory (GST) is a conceptual framework that emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all elements within a system.
🌟 Ludwig von Bertalanffy, the biologist and philosopher, is credited with developing GST, advocating for a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to understanding complex systems.
🔁 Open systems are a core concept of GST, characterized by their interaction with the environment, transformation of inputs into outputs, and the use of feedback loops for self-regulation.
🔄 Closed systems, in contrast to open systems, are self-contained and do not exchange matter or energy with their environment, focusing solely on internal processes.
🔁 Feedback loops are essential in GST, with negative feedback aiming to correct deviations and maintain stability, while positive feedback amplifies changes leading to growth or decline.
🔗 Interdependence and relationships are key in GST, highlighting the need for communication and coordination among subsystems to achieve common goals.
🌱 Dynamic equilibrium and homeostasis are states where a system maintains stability or a balance between variables despite ongoing changes.
⚠️ Criticisms of GST include the challenge of achieving true interdependence among personnel and the influence of external environmental factors on system structure and function.
🏫 Applications of GST in higher education include the instructor-centered versus learning-centered paradigms, promoting holistic learning and interdisciplinary collaboration.
🤝 The concept of shared governance in community colleges can be enhanced by adopting an open systems framework, encouraging subsystems to work together towards educational goals.
📧 The presentation concludes with an invitation for questions and further discussion, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue in the application of GST.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the PowerPoint presentation by Kelly Alvarado?
-The main goal of the presentation is to help the audience understand the conceptual theory of General Systems Theory (GST), the author and his major contributions, and the application of the theory in today's world within higher education.
What is the key concept of General Systems Theory according to the quote in the presentation?
-The key concept is the interrelatedness of nature and the universe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things, which is central to the understanding of open systems in GST.
Who is Ludwig von Bertalanffy and what was his profession?
-Ludwig von Bertalanffy was a biologist, born on September 19, 1901, in Austria-Hungary, and he passed away on June 12, 1972, in Buffalo, New York. He believed in a holistic view of the world and the interdisciplinary thought of science.
What is the difference between open and closed systems in General Systems Theory?
-Open systems are influenced by the environment and transform inputs into outputs with the help of feedback loops. Closed systems, on the other hand, are self-perpetuating and do not receive outside energy or resources, focusing only on internal functions without considering environmental factors.
What are the two types of feedback loops mentioned in the presentation?
-The two types of feedback loops are negative feedback, which provides corrective action when things are not going well, and positive feedback, which amplifies the initial disturbance to improve outcomes.
How does the concept of interdependence in relationships relate to higher education according to General Systems Theory?
-Interdependence in relationships suggests that various departments and programs within higher education are interrelated subsystems that work together to achieve a common goal, requiring communication plans for the exchange of relevant information.
What is dynamic equilibrium and how can it be seen in higher education?
-Dynamic equilibrium exists when system components are in a state of change, but at least one variable stays within a specified range. In higher education, this can be seen in retention rates, where various departments work together to keep the rate within a certain range.
What is homeostasis and how is it related to higher education?
-Homeostasis is a condition of dynamic equilibrium between at least two system variables. In the context of higher education, it can refer to variables like retention and graduation rates, which are kept within a specific range by the coordinated efforts of various departments.
What are some criticisms of General Systems Theory mentioned in the presentation?
-Criticisms include the interdependence of personnel, which requires individuals to work together across disciplines, the effect of the environment on structure and function, and the challenge of nature versus nurture within an organization.
Can you provide an example of how General Systems Theory is applied in higher education?
-An example is the use of an interdisciplinary approach, such as a math and English class team-taught by a mathematician and an English faculty, which helps reduce department silos and extends resources for a more holistic learning experience.
What is the discussion board question posed in the presentation regarding higher education and open systems?
-The question asks how community college leaders can create an environment of shared governance using an open systems framework and whether subsystems can work interrelatedly towards a similar goal in higher education.

Outlines

00:00

📈 Introduction to General Systems Theory

Kelly Alvarado introduces a PowerPoint presentation on General Systems Theory (GST), aiming to explain the theory, its author Ludwig von Bertalanffy, his contributions, and the application of GST in higher education. The presentation outline includes an overview of GST, open and closed systems, feedback loops, interdependence, and dynamic equilibrium. It also addresses criticisms and current applications in higher education. A quote by von Bertalanffy emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things, a core concept in open systems theory. Bertalanffy, an Austrian biologist, advocated for a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to science, contrary to the compartmentalization of scientific fields.

05:03

🔄 Open and Closed Systems in GST

The presentation delves into the concept of open systems, which are influenced by their environment and transform inputs into outputs through a process involving subsystems and feedback. An example using the process of making and printing photos illustrates how an open system functions. In contrast, closed systems are self-sufficient and do not interact with their environment, focusing only on internal functions. The difference between open and closed systems is crucial for understanding how organizations adapt and evolve. Feedback loops, both negative and positive, are essential for systems to self-correct and improve, with examples provided from higher education, such as policy changes based on feedback and retention efforts for student groups.

10:03

🤝 Interdependence and Criticisms in GST

The theory of interdependence in GST, which emerged post-World War II, addresses the compartmentalization of science and advocates for a connection between scientific disciplines and organizational management. This is exemplified by the relationship between departments and programs within higher education, which are subsystems that work together towards a common goal. Dynamic equilibrium and homeostasis are discussed as states where system components change but maintain certain variables within a range, such as retention and graduation rates in higher education. Criticisms of GST include the challenge of interdependence among personnel and the influence of the environment on system structure and function, which can affect a system's ability to perform as planned.

🏛 Applications of GST in Higher Education

The application of GST in higher education is explored through two paradigms: the instruction paradigm, which views learning as cumulative and time-bound, and the learning paradigm, which sees learning as a continuous process. Examples such as service-learning and holistic learning are provided to illustrate how interdisciplinary approaches can break down departmental silos and extend resources. The benefits to students of such approaches are highlighted, including increased critical thinking and a broader understanding of subjects. The presentation concludes with a discussion board question about creating an environment of shared governance in community colleges using an open systems framework and the possibility of subsystems working interrelatedly towards similar goals.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡General Systems Theory (GST)

General Systems Theory, also known as GST, is a conceptual framework that seeks to find the underlying principles that govern systems in various fields such as science, social science, and engineering. In the context of the video, GST is used to analyze and understand the complex interactions within higher education systems. The video emphasizes the importance of viewing educational institutions as open systems that interact with their environment, transforming inputs into outputs through a process of feedback and adaptation.

💡Ludwig von Bertalanffy

Ludwig von Bertalanffy was an Austrian biologist who is considered the founder of General Systems Theory. The video highlights his contributions to the understanding of systems as open, interrelated, and dynamic entities. His work is foundational to the video's theme, as it provides the theoretical basis for analyzing higher education systems as complex, adaptive organizations.

💡Open Systems

Open systems are those that interact with their environment, exchanging materials, energy, or information. In the video, open systems are contrasted with closed systems, emphasizing the importance of environmental influence and the need for constant adaptation. The example of a digital camera, computer, and printer sequence illustrates how an open system in higher education transforms inputs into outputs through a series of interconnected processes.

💡Feedback Loops

Feedback loops are mechanisms in systems that provide information about the system's performance, allowing for adjustments to improve efficiency or outcomes. The video discusses two types of feedback: negative and positive. Negative feedback corrects errors, while positive feedback amplifies successful processes. In higher education, feedback loops are crucial for policy adjustments and program improvements, as exemplified by changes based on alumni feedback or retention efforts for specific student groups.

💡Interdependence and Relationships

Interdependence in GST refers to the reliance of system components on each other for the system to function effectively. The video underscores the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of various parts of an educational institution, such as departments and programs, and the need for communication and collaboration to achieve common goals.

💡Dynamic Equilibrium

Dynamic equilibrium is a state in which a system's components are in constant change, yet certain variables remain within a stable range. The video uses this concept to discuss how higher education institutions maintain stability in areas like retention rates, despite ongoing internal and external changes. This concept is crucial for understanding how institutions can adapt to fluctuations while maintaining core performance indicators.

💡Homeostasis

Homeostasis is a specific type of dynamic equilibrium where multiple system variables are kept within a stable range. In the video, homeostasis is used to describe how higher education systems maintain balance in critical areas such as retention and graduation rates. This concept is important for understanding the stability mechanisms within educational institutions.

💡Criticisms of GST

The video acknowledges that GST has faced criticisms, such as the challenge of interdependence among personnel and the influence of the environment on system structure and function. These criticisms highlight the complexities and limitations of applying systems theory to real-world situations, where external factors and human dynamics can complicate the idealized models of system behavior.

💡Instruction Paradigm

The instruction paradigm is one of the examples given in the video to illustrate the application of GST in higher education. It represents a traditional view of education where knowledge is seen as something that exists and is transmitted from teachers to students. This paradigm is contrasted with the learning paradigm, which views knowledge as something that is created and constructed through active engagement and interaction.

💡Service-Learning

Service-learning is an educational approach mentioned in the video that integrates community service with academic study. It is an example of applying GST principles in practice, where students engage with real-world problems, applying classroom learning to practical situations. This approach exemplifies the open system concept by bridging the gap between the educational institution and its external environment.

💡Interdisciplinary Learning

Interdisciplinary learning is highlighted in the video as a method that combines knowledge and methods from multiple disciplines to enhance critical thinking and understanding. This approach aligns with GST's emphasis on interdependence and the interconnectedness of system components. An example provided is a class that combines math and English, allowing students to view mathematical problems through a literary lens and vice versa.

Highlights

Overview of General Systems Theory (GST) by Kelly Alvarado, focusing on its conceptual theory, author's contributions, and applications in higher education.

GST emphasizes the interrelatedness of nature and the universe, a key concept in open systems theory.

Ludwig von Bertalanffy, the biologist and philosopher, is the founder of GST, advocating for a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to science.

Open systems are influenced by the environment and transform inputs into outputs through subsystems and feedback loops.

Closed systems are self-perpetuating, without external energy or resource inputs, focusing solely on internal functions.

Feedback loops in GST are crucial for efficiency, with negative feedback correcting processes and positive feedback amplifying successful outcomes.

Interdependence and relationships in GST suggest a connection between scientific disciplines and organizational management.

Dynamic equilibrium and homeostasis in GST describe a state of change with at least one variable maintained within a specified range.

Criticisms of GST include the challenge of interdependence among personnel and the influence of the environment on system structure and function.

Application of GST in higher education includes the instructor versus learning paradigm, focusing on the creation of knowledge versus its accumulation.

Service-learning is an example of applying GST in education, combining classroom learning with practical experience in service organizations.

Holistic learning, combining multiple disciplines, is another GST application in education, promoting critical thinking and reducing departmental silos.

Interdisciplinary classes, such as math and English, exemplify GST by combining content expertise from different fields for a comprehensive understanding.

The discussion board question explores how community college leaders can create an environment of shared governance using an open systems framework.

The possibility of subsystems working interrelatedly towards a common goal in higher education is examined within the context of GST.

Kelly Alvarado invites questions and discussion via the CCL cohort 25 Facebook page or email, emphasizing community engagement in understanding GST.

References are provided for further exploration of GST, encouraging a deeper dive into the theory and its applications.