This activity introduces systems thinking, allowing participants to experience the interdependencies of a complex system. A facilitator can use this activity to illustrate the importance of taking a system perspective or to emphasize the importance of engaging in a thorough problem investigation using a variety of tools to better understand how a system’s design is leading to current outcomes.
During this activity, participants experience the dynamic nature of a complex system. Several participants act as parts of a system and move around the designated space while attempting to stay equidistant from two selected individuals. As the activity unfolds, the facilitator introduces “improvements” to the system by moving certain participants to different places in the room, which demonstrates the role that external forces have within a system and the ripple effect that a small change can have throughout an entire system.
This resource includes a description of the activity, facilitator guidance, and key teaching points.
