Complexity » Thinking » Wisdom

What, exactly, makes any system complex?

I look to Cilliers' (1998) explanation of systems complexity as a good place to start:

"Complexity is the result of a rich interaction of simple elements that only respond to the limited information each of them are presented with. When we look at the behavior of a complex system as a whole our focus shifts fro the individual element in the system to the complex structure of the system. The complexity emerges as a result of the pattern of interaction between the elements" (p. 5).

Based on this definition of complexity (and systems), how can we begin to use computing technology such as virtual environments to facilitate any given individual's increased understanding of complex systems? How can we measure this increase in understanding to allow for appropriate assessment decisions about any individual learner?

I think a good perspective to take is one that combines Capra's (2000) "criteria of systems thinking" with elements of Meadow's (2005) "systems wisdom."

References

Capra, F. (2000). Ecoliteracy: A systems approach to education. In Center for Ecoliteracy. Ecoliteracy: Mapping the terrain. Berkeley, CA.

Cilliers, P. (1998). Complexity and postmodernism: Understanding complex systems. London: Routledge.

Meadows, D. (2005). Dancing with systems. In M. K. Stone & Z. Barlow, (Eds.). Ecological literacy: Educating our children for a sustainable world. (pp. 193-205). San Francisco: Sierra Club Books.