Systems Thinking for Sustainable Schooling

Reviews / Votes

Systems Thinking for Sustainable Schooling presents a compelling case for the adoption of systems thinking in schools ... The authors' practical insights make the book a valuable resource for those committed to transforming education practices and achieving sustainable, high-quality outcomes. * School Administrator Magazine * Finally, a book that in a scientific and accurate way addresses system thinking and sustainable development as the education sector's important future challenge. Through the authors' different perspectives, reading becomes both interesting and entertaining. I recommend this book to anyone active in education, and to others interested in these same challenges for society at large. -- Hakan Wiklund, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Mid Sweden University, Sweden Over 50 years ago Karolyn Snyder and Robert Anderson launched a movement with educators around Systems Thinking that took them around the world to teach, train, and conduct research. They influenced generations of educators and doctoral students by producing worldwide digital networks, school visits, task forces, study groups, school district training series, partnerships, global summits, and numerous publications. Their early work helped to reimagine change in schools as something natural and welcomed, rather than forced and resisted. In this new book, Snyder and Snyder lovingly carry on this earlier work by revisiting the value of Systems Thinking, reporting its impact on school development, and imagining its possibilities and its importance to continuous growth and sustainability in schools. While the current scholars of improvement science are rediscovering this early work, these editors and their authors are the real deal in Systems Thinking! -- Helen M. Hazi, Professor Emerita, Educational Leadership, West Virginia University In our society all schools (public, private and charter) need to become learning organizations. It is the only way to develop the full potential of every student as an inquirer, able to reach the highest level of his or her abilities/skills. It will change every student into a 'life-long learner' who is able to contribute to society. A key factor for the learning organization is 'Systems-Thinking'. It is hard because it implies a real mind shift for all professionals in the school, as well as for students and families. And, it is the best way to achieve the highest level of quality in education. -- Luis Perez Martinez, Former CEO and Chairman of Spanish Consultancy, and the European Center for the Training of Executives, Spain Understanding the roots and principles of Systems Thinking is vital to any true educator. This book is an excellent guide to the world of Systems Thinking and its role in education. The book also supports the reader to develop systems thinking skills that are needed in the sustainable development of education. My own experience in leading educational reforms at the state, local and school levels in Finland certifies the value of this important book. -- Irmeli Halinen, Former Head of Curriculum Development for the Finnish National Agency for Education; a curriculum specialist for the OECD and UNESCO