Cognitive Science 0217 - Systems Theory and Environment

Systems exist in every facet of life. Biological systems, political systems, economic systems - they all exhibit properties that, scholars in education argue, we need to understand in order to solve our most pressing environmental and ecojustice problems. In this course, students will grapple with real-world "wicked problems" while they learn about systems theory and systems thinking. How do systems of oppression intersect with disruptions of climate systems? Why do economic systems fail to capture ecosystem services? Can an understanding of dynamic systems increase human capacity to respond to natural and human catastrophes? What are the challenges to teaching people about systems? Can systems thinking yield decision-making that takes into accounts both environmental and justice factors? Through a whole-class project, field trips to sites of environmental and ecojustice atrocities, and short papers on topics of students' own choosing, students will leave this course with new tools for tracking system-driven problems.

Mind, Brain, and Information Writing and Research Independent Work In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, and research. There will likely be field trips associated with this course. The expected cost per student is $15 or less.