SYSTEMS THEORY

6. Systems Theory

Ludwig von Bertalanffy proposed that every organism was a sum of its parts and that each part worked in relation to each other part. As explained by Bela Bethany, “the systems view is a world-view that is based on the discipline of SYSTEM INQUIRY, Central to systems inquiry is the concept of SYSTEM. In the most general sense, system means a configuration of parts connected and joined together by a web of relationships. The Primer group defines system as a family of relationships among the members acting as a whole”. Bertalanffy's work, along with the work of Gerard, Rapaport and Boulding at the Society for General Systems Research promoted the concept that learning occurs most effectively in a holistic environment

Classical learning theories, such as behavioral and operant conditioning, view cause and effect as the primary method of learning; student behavior could be modified with reinforcements. Systems theory considers that learning happens through many more dynamic operations within and outside of the individual. Individuals interact with their environment rather than simply being impacted by it.

A key to the systems theory is the need for the practitioner to understand the system that is being worked with. In understanding how a child learns, a teacher would need to identify the needs of the child. Systems theory methodology would require the teacher to select a variety of ways to help the child learn. A school administrator would identify the needs of the school and the way the school functions as a whole. A district supervisor would investigate the district needs and characteristics. And so on. In identifying the way the system works, one is then able to identify the necessary approach to ensure that all the needs are met.

We define two types of systems: natural and designed. Natural systems are systems that exist through nature such as the solar system, or the structure of molecules. Designed systems are those created by other organisms, such as schools, engines or learning theories. Schools and school districts are systems and in such they have identifiable parts that interact with each other and have impact upon each other. Likewise, a classroom or even a class lesson is a system within the larger system. A closed system is isolated from its environment, whereas an open system interacts freely with its environment.