• The importance of understanding complex systems
• The 14 Habits of a Systems Thinker
• Importance of systems thinking to leadership, organizational culture and goal achievement
• Iceberg framework for developing a deep understanding of complex systems
• Mental Models and the Ladder of Inference
• Surfacing patterns and trends of systems change using Behavior-over-time Graphs
• Mapping tools that help uncover and represent system structure (Connection Circles, Causal Loop Diagrams)
• The concept of leverage when determining actions to achieve desired outcomes
• Causal Loop Archetypes to help anticipate consequences to aid decision-making and problem-solving

Improving Student Success with Systems Thinking  - Developing Capacity for Thinking, Leading, Teaching, and Learning

"Systems Thinking takes your students to a whole other level of learning, and it hits so many standards all at once because it’s applicable to literally everything you do in the classroom. Lessons that I’ve been teaching for years and years have truly been enhanced through systems thinking: I saw better results in their reading, I saw better results in their math, and I knew it was because they were thinking in a different way.” — Anna Geras, Elementary School Teacher

Educators are juggling many seemingly disconnected initiatives, strategies, and methods. Systems Thinking enables you to step back and see the whole picture and understand how to focus your efforts to greatest effect. When you have a clear and deep understanding of how your classroom, schools, and community are interconnected systems, you are better equipped to identify practical actions that solve problems and lead to improvements. This three-day workshop with expert instruction from the nationally-known Waters Foundation will introduce systems thinking concepts, habits and tools that will help you develop:

• Decision-making and problem-solving approaches that will help you and your colleagues identify and address barriers to success
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Positive and empowering classroom and organizational cultures
• A capability to analyze complex issues and identify high-leverage interventions
• A practical plan ready to immediately implement in your classroom or school

Through highly interactive approaches, participants will learn and practice strategies and tools for working together and solving problems that will transform your classrooms and your staff rooms.

“Systems thinking (and Waters Foundation) has provided the opportunity for Twin Rivers USD employees to develop new skills and behaviors to resolve long-standing issues that have historically impacted student achievement. Also, it has repurposed how and why we deliver services to schools and students and the role each of us play in student/teacher success. Without a doubt, systems thinking has accelerated the process in building capacity in the system for all staff.” — Dr. Steven Martinez, Superintendent

If you are planning to register a team of 3 or more from your district, please contact the organizer by email for the DISCOUNT CODE.

Please note PSESD's Professional Development Cancellation Policy here: http://events.psesd.org/events-calendar-registration/