Seeks to understand the Observes how elements Recognizes that a system’s

big picture within systems change structure generates its

over time, generating behavior
patterns and trends

Identifies the circular

nature of complex cause Habits of a Changes perspectives to
increase understanding
and effect relationships
Systems
Thinker

Surfaces and tests Considers an issue fully

assumptions and resists the urge to
come to a quick
conclusion

Considers how mental Uses understanding of Considers both short and

models affect current system structure to identify long-term consequences
reality and the future possible leverage actions of actions

Finds where unintended Recognizes the impact of Checks results and

consequences emerge time delays when exploring changes actions if
cause and effect needed: “successive
relationships approximation”

©2007, Waters Foundation, Systems Thinking in Schools