Open Systems Theory

1
Open Systems Theory

• Edwin D. Bell

2
Open Systems

• This theoretical perspective started with the
  research of Ludwig Von Bertalanffy in biology
• (click on Open system)

3
Definition

• System theory is basically concerned with
  problems of relationships, of structures, and of
  interdependence, rather than with the constant
  attributes of object (Katz and Kahn, 1966).
  Webster defines a system as a "regularly
  interacting or interdependent group of items
  forming a unified whole," which "is in, or tends
  to be in, equilibrium".

4
Definition (continued)

• Negandi says that "a system's attributes, which
  are the interdependence and interlinking of
  various subsystems within a given system, and the
  tendency toward attaining a balance, or
  equilibrium forces one to think in terms of
  multiple causation in contrast to the common
  habit of thinking in single-cause terms". (Hong
  et al., no date, par. 2)

5
Significance

• The emphasis on multiple causation is
  particularly important as you think through the
  relationship among your independent and dependent
  variables in the logic model of your action
  research.

6
Pros of Using Systems Perspective to Manage Change

• Applying systems theory gives the students (and
  educators, who are learners as well) cohesion to
  disparate facts giving better problem solving
  skills. It also increases the understanding of
  relationships between systems. For example,
  giving a group of students the task of developing
  an amusement park requires them to look at
  economic, social, environmental, educational, and
  construction factors.

7
Pros (continued)

• It requires them to use traditional material
  (math, reading, spelling, grammar, biology,
  physics, etc. skills) as well as giving students
  additional understanding about how these pieces
  mesh together to make a whole. It demonstrates to
  them first hand how the most basic concepts
  contribute to the larger figure. It encourages
  students to change from being passive absorbers
  of information to active learners seeking
  knowledge. (Hong, et al. ,No Date, par 20)

8
Cons of Using Systems Perspective to Manage Change

• Educational reformers must carefully analyze and
  thoroughly understand the information needs of
  the system and its primary subsystems as well as
  the interactions of the system with its
  environment. Interrelationships among parts of a
  system have to be recognized and understood or
  the reform will fail.
• It requires a shared vision so all the people
  involved have an idea of that they are trying to
  accomplish. It has to be a cohesive effort from
  all participants.

9
Cons (continued)

• It requires leaders to assume new roles and
  master new skills, which may require training and
  willingness. It requires regular, wide-spread
  evaluation and feedback to remain an open and
  viable system. (Hong et al. No date, par. 21)

10
Summary

• An open systems perspective allows you to use
  analytical, empirical, and intuitive data in the
  design of a logic model that is the best fit and
  the most accurate predictor of behavior in your
  organization. A good working model of your
  organization is a necessary condition for
  effective action research.

11
References

• Hong, N Al-Khatib Magagna, B McLoughlin, A
  and Coe, B. (No Date). Systems Theory
  (Retrieved from http//www.ed.psu.edu/insys/ESD/sy
  stems/theory/SYSTHEO2.htm on 3/15/07)
• Ludwig Von Bertalanffy, Passages from General
  systems theory (1968) ( Retrieved from
  http//www.panarchy.org/vonbertalanffy/systems.196
  8.html on 3/15/07)