Course Summary
This course introduces the principles and practice of systems thinking, a powerful approach to solving complex problems that involve multiple stakeholders, interests, and perspectives. You will learn how to use systems thinking to analyze and improve complex systems, and how to apply systems thinking to a range of real-world challenges.Key Learning Points
- Learn the principles and practice of systems thinking
- Understand how to use systems thinking to analyze and improve complex systems
- Apply systems thinking to a range of real-world challenges
Related Topics for further study
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the principles and practice of systems thinking
- Analyze and improve complex systems using systems thinking
- Apply systems thinking to real-world challenges
Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course
- Basic knowledge of problem solving
- Familiarity with basic mathematical concepts
Course Difficulty Level
IntermediateCourse Format
- Online
- Self-paced
- Video lectures
Similar Courses
- Design Thinking for Innovation
- Introduction to Data Science in Python
- Business Strategy
Related Education Paths
Notable People in This Field
- Systems Thinker
Related Books
Description
This course provides an introduction to systems thinking and systems models in public health. Problems in public health and health policy tend to be complex with many actors, institutions and risk factors involved. If an outcome depends on many interacting and adaptive parts and actors the outcome cannot be analyzed or predicted with traditional statistical methods. Systems thinking is a core skill in public health and helps health policymakers build programs and policies that are aware of and prepared for unintended consequences.
Outline
- Introduction to Systems Thinking and Complex Adaptive Systems
- Welcome to Systems Thinking in Public Health
- Video: Introduction to Systems Thinking
- Lecture 1A: Why Use Systems Thinking
- Lecture 1B: Health Systems Applications of CAS: Health Systems Frameworks and the Problem of Implementation
- Lecture 1C: CAS Pathways: The Problem of Scaling Up
- Lecture 1D: Where Systems Thinking Helps: Understanding the Types of Problems, Theories, Methods, and Tools
- Lecture 2A: Systems Thinking In Practice - Understanding and Engaging with Stakeholders
- Lecture 2B: Network Analysis, Participatory Impact Pathways Analysis, and Summary
- Syllabus
- Module Learning Objectives
- The Application of Systems Thinking in Public Health - David Peters (2014)
- When solutions of yesterday become problems of today - Agyepong et al 2012
- Individual‐based Computational Modeling of Smallpox Epidemic Control Strategies - Burke et al (2006)
- Dynamic spread of happiness in a large social network - Fowler and Christakis (2008)
- Why Model? (Epstein 2008)
- A stakeholder analysis (Varvasovszky & Brugha, 2000)
- Participatory impact pathways analysis: A practical application of program theory in research-for-development (Douthwaite et al. 2007)
- Hoffman et. al. (2012) Background Paper on Conceptual Issues Related to Health Systems Research to Inform a WHO Global Strategy on Health Systems Research
- 2007 Anderson - Agent based models for simulating policies in complex systems
- Rwashana AS et. al. ystem dynamics approach to immunization healthcare issues in developing countries: a case study of Uganda.
- Hyder A (2010) Stakeholder analysis for health research: case studies from low- and middle-income countries.
- Quiz Module 1
- System Conceptualization Using Causal Loop Diagrams
- Video: System Conceptualization and Mapping
- Lecture 3A: System Conceptualization and Mapping: Introduction to Causal Loop Diagrams
- Lecture 3B: Causal Loop Diagrams: Basic Components
- Lecture 3C: Causal Loop Diagrams: Sources of Data, Strengths, and Weaknesses
- Lecture 4A: Introduction to Community-Based Causal Mapping Workshop
- Lecture 4B: Community-Based Causal Mapping Workshop Part 1
- Lecture 4C: Community-Based Causal Mapping Workshop Part 2
- Tutorial 1: Developing causal loop diagrams using Vensim
- Module Learning Objectives
- Exploring dual practice and its management in Uganda - Paina et al (2014)
- Advancing the application of systems thinking in health - Rwashana et al (2014)
- Vensim User Manual
- Scriptapedia & Original Scripts for Practice Workshop
- Simplified Variable Elicitation Script
- Group model building using system dynamics: An analysis of methodological frameworks
- Community Based System Dynamics
- Sterman Chapter 5 Causal Loop Diagrams
- Quiz Module 2
- System Dynamics Simulation Using Stock-and-Flow Diagrams
- Video: System Dynamics Simulation Using Stock-and-Flow Diagrams
- Lecture 5A: Using Stock and Flow Principles for Simulation
- Lecture 5B: Defining Stocks
- Lecture 5C: Flow and Control Variables
- Lecture 6A: Case Example: Application of Stock and Flow Diagrams to Public Health
- Lecture 6B: Advanced Model of Volume and Quality
- Lecture 6C: Advanced Model: Cure and Prevention Model
- Tutorial 2: Tutorial on How To Develop Stock-and-Flow Diagrams Using Vensim
- Lecture 7A: Analysis Using Agent-Based Models: Trying Things Out
- Lecture 7B: Breakdown of the Agent-Based Approach
- Lecture 7C: Case Study of Epidemic Modeling
- Tutorial 3A: How to use agent-based models for scenario-building using Netlogo
- Tutorial 3B: How to use agent-based models for scenario-building using Netlogo
- Module Learning Objectives
- Vensim Model I - Example Stock and Flow Diagram: Technical Quality
- Vensim Model II - Example stock and flow diagram: Quality of services
- Vensim Model III - Performance Based Financing
- Vensim Model IV - Effect of lobying
- Advancing the application of systems thinking in public health - Bishai et all (2014)
- Vensim User Manual
- Sterman Chapter 6 Stocks and Flows
- Module Learning Objectives
- How to do agent-based simulations in the future - Helbing and Balietti (2011)
- Netlogo User Manual
- Quiz Module 3
- Practical and policy implications
- Video: Practical and policy implications
- Lecture 8A: How Systems Thinking Can Contribute to Policy Decision Making
- Lecture 8B: Systems Thinking in Top-Down Policymaking
- Lecture 8C: Systems Thinking in Bottom-Up Policymaking
- Lecture 8D: Integration and Summary
- Conclusion Video
- Module Learning Objectives
- Advancing the application of systems thinking in health: why cure crowds out prevention
- Chapter 4 & 13 Colander & Kupers
- Quiz Module 4
Summary of User Reviews
Learn about systems thinking with this Coursera course. The course has received positive reviews from users who appreciate its comprehensive approach to the subject.Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course
Many users found the course's approach to systems thinking to be comprehensive and thorough.Pros from User Reviews
- The course covers a wide range of topics related to systems thinking.
- The instructors are knowledgeable and engaging.
- The course includes practical examples and real-world applications.
- The course is self-paced, allowing users to learn at their own speed.
- The course materials are well-organized and easy to follow.
Cons from User Reviews
- Some users found the course to be too theoretical and lacking in practical applications.
- The course requires a significant time commitment, which may be challenging for some users.
- The course may be too advanced for beginners or those with limited knowledge of systems thinking.
- Some users felt that the course could benefit from more interactive elements, such as quizzes or group discussions.
- The course may be too focused on business and organizational applications of systems thinking, which may not be relevant to all users.
David Bishai, MD, PhD
4.6 Raiting
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