Package Description

What You Will Learn

This course module is presented in five sections, approximately one hour: 

• • 4.1 Introduction - Understand the definition of systems thinking, why this strategy is vital for sustainability practitioners, and what often thwarts this problem-solving approach.
  • 4.2 Systems Structure and Behavior - Discover the elements of systems thinking, including (1) stocks, flows, and dynamic equilibrium and complexity, (2) feedback loops, (3) shifting dominance, delays, and oscillations, (4) scenarios and testing models, (5) constraints, (6) resilience, self-organization, and hierarchy, and (7) mindsets and models.
  • 4.3 Applying Systems Thinking - Understand how to switch from a linear mindset to a systems thinking approach by exploring mindsets and mental models.
  • 4.4 Examples of Interdependencies - Explore topics that illustrate the interdependent nature of the world around us, demonstrating why systems thinking is a core sustainability concept. 
  • 4.5 Conclusion - Review why systems thinking makes us better decision makers and allows us to see synergy in solutions. 

Course participants will take one quiz at the end of this module, approximately 10 questions.

Who is This Course For?

The Sustainability Core Competencies course is designed for individuals who may be new to the sustainability field but who plan to incorporate sustainability concepts directly into their work. It could also be for individuals who want third-party certification of their knowledge of sustainability via the SEA credential or those with expertise in a sector of sustainability that desire a broader industry understanding.

Course Description

This module explains systems thinking, explores its structure, and provides examples of interdependencies in nature that require this problem-solving approach. 

You’ll learn to pursue strategies that address the root causes of problems – not just their symptoms. Sustainability professionals must often address complex problems involving many interdependent variables, and this requires a problem-solving approach that relies on understanding the full system. 

The content of this video is based on Chapter 4 of the SEA Study Guide and can be used as preparation for the SEA exam. This course is a tool to help you study for the exam, but completion of the Sustainability Core Competencies course does not guarantee passing the SEA exam. [Read disclaimer.] 

Certificate

Following the successful completion of the course, students will receive a Certificate of Completion, indicating knowledge of core sustainability concepts and best practices. 

The completion of the full Sustainability Core Competencies course earns 5 Continuing Education Units (CEU) for SEA and SEP credential holders, and the completion of this module alone earns 0.5 CEU credits.

Directions for Access

Each module must be completed to unlock the next module. Click the title of the first module to launch the course.

Disclaimer

Upgrades to the ISSP course technology will occur Summer 2024. Please note this transition will result in the loss of any progress you make in completion of this course. All course users will be provided a minimum of 30-day notice prior to platform transition to complete course. Access will be granted automatically on the upgraded platform for future course use.