Systems Thinking: Navigating Complexity in Museums
12 Days of Christmas Day 6
Welcome to Day 6 of the 12 Days of Christmas: Museum Education Edition! Today’s episode dives into the transformative power of systems thinking and its application to the wicked problems we face in museum education. Learn how this innovative mindset can help you approach complex challenges with clarity, adaptability, and creativity.
Key Takeaways
What is Systems Thinking?
Systems thinking is a method for viewing problems as interconnected parts of a larger whole, focusing on relationships, feedback loops, and systemic impacts.
It emphasizes adaptability and collaboration to address challenges.
What are Wicked Problems?
Wicked problems are complex, evolving issues like accessibility, education reform, or climate change that resist straightforward solutions.
Solving wicked problems requires balancing competing values, perspectives, and ever-changing conditions.
Practical Application:
Use tools like the DSRP (Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, Perspectives) model or the EPIC (Explore, Produce, Intervene, Check) framework to address museum-specific challenges like programming fees or accessibility.
Key Point: You should engage stakeholders at every level to map relationships and perspectives within the system.
Why It Matters:
Systems thinking aligns with museums' missions of inclusivity, collaboration, and ongoing improvement. It fosters freedom to experiment, iterate, and learn.
Check out the episode on your favorite podcast player!
Resources Mentioned
Looking for the transcript? Find it here.
