Open Distance Learning Network/Systems concepts: Innovation Systems, Value Chains, And Livelihood Systems

MODULE 1 Multi-stakeholder Partnerships

Unit 2:

Systems concepts: Innovation Systems, Value Chains, And Livelihood Systems

Systems Thinking

A System is an arrangement of physical components related in such a way that they act as a whole. There different types of systems and systems approach under systems concepts. In this class, we will look at the characteristics of a system, define what a system is, the systems approaches, a farm as a system, the types of systems and their frameworks, the external and internal factors, and the driving forces.

Requirements

Class Requirements: Successfully complete assignments by the due date.

Software Requirements: You must have internet connections to access the content and registered with wikieducator.org- with knowledge how it works.

Unit1

These is the first Unit under Module 1 of the four themes of Multi-stakeholder Learning Cycles.The outcomes of the whole Unit are outlined above.The Unit is divided into 10 lessons each with the objectives,and assignments to be made at the end of each lesson.Important notes/tips are given in intervals for critical reading or noting.Web resources/references are given at the end of the whole Unit for further reading.

Lesson1: Systems Definition

A System is an arrangement of physical components related in such a way that they act as a whole.

What does a System have?

A System has components and interactions.

Definition of a System

A system is: An arrangement of physical components related in such a way that they act as a whole. Where the properties of the whole arise from the relationships between the component parts; and Something that has a purpose, or is of interest to someone.

A system has; “Components”

Characteristics of a System

“Interactions”

“Boundaries or Limits”

“Inputs / Outputs” “Hierarchy” “Hierarchy” of agricultural systems

“Emergent Property”

Systems vs Conventional Thinking

Challenge!

Lesson2: Systems Approach

There two system approaches.

The “Hard Systems” Approach

The “Soft Systems “Approach

Systems are “Constructs”