For the final paper, select Option A, Option B, or Option C. Your paper should be 8 pages (max – excluding diagrams) typewritten and double spaced. It should be well organized and concise, and should demonstrate your ability to apply systems thinking to a complex issue. In the paper, first describe what you will be discussing and summarize at the end. For ALL options, use the following guidance to demonstrate your mastery of the course – it will make the difference in your grade!
1.Integrate key systems thinking concepts.
2.Discuss/ include basic systems thinking principles such as reinforcing and balancing loops; internal relationships and external influences; behavior over time; short and long-term outcomes; lags; external environment; unintended consequences; leverage points; and systems archetypes. For Options B and C, use the Systems Thinking Checklist and be sure to include:
oSuccinct statement of the issue/ problem including relevant timeframes
oInfluence Diagram showing system boundary, internal relationships and external influences
oBehavior Over Time Graph(s)
oSystem diagram showing:
§Causal Loop Diagrams (reinforcing and balancing loops) with time delays (lags)
§Leverage points. Annotate the points on the diagram, describe proposed actions associated with each one, identify the type of leverage the action represents (Meadows) and describe its potential effectiveness.
§Identify systems archetypes or lack thereof
3.Major external factors and possible unintended consequences. Clarify and illustrate your points with examples from class discussions and external sources. Examples are a critical part of your grade.
4.Summary of your system including its goal/purpose and insights from your analysis.
Option C: Apply systems thinking to the onset and effects of the Coronavirus outbreak. Integrate your thoughts into a systems discussion using the previous guidance, identifying and illustrating important systems principles. The two articles and set of graphs are intended to form a basis for your paper; however, you must also do additional research to understand and discuss both known and possible unintended consequences (which may not yet be documented or seen). Feel free to think broadly here, but be sure to provide rationale for your conclusions.
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