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Systems Informed Approaches to Change (EDUC91043)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville) and Online

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Overview

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March - On Campus
July - Online
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Supporting an integrative, inter-disciplinary approach to wellbeing, this subject explores systems informed approaches to positive development and functioning, moving discourse, theory, research, and practice beyond the individual to include broader human social systems. Through experiential learning opportunities, students will unpack the philosophical and methodological assumptions that drive the positive psychology and wellbeing science fields and consider practical implications of a systems-informed perspective.

Students will be introduced to a variety of systems-awareness tools, considering their practical utility in different contexts and across different situations. Students will identify the dynamic impact of factors such as culture, communities, and politics, on individual and collective wellbeing. Students will also explore systems-based approaches to sustainable change, which address the complexity of individual and collective behaviour change.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Evaluate factors influencing the relevance of wellbeing conceptualisations.
  • Critically evaluate approaches employed in positive psychology, wellbeing science, and related disciplines from a systems informed perspective.
  • Develop ethically sensitive approaches to improve wellbeing within specific contexts from a systems informed perspective.
  • Analyse individual, collective, and contextual factors that impact sustainable behaviour and systems change.
  • Develop and trial a systems-informed approach to creating change.
  • Demonstrate reflective practice regarding learning and professional application of change approaches.

Generic skills

This subject develops the following generic skills:

  • Problem solving skills that are creative, innovative and solution focused.
  • Analytical skills and the ability to construct and articulate logical arguments.
  • Collaborative and teamwork skills through working with fellow students.
  • Ability to critically investigate, revise and review new ideas and approaches.
  • Application of behaviour change methods.

Last updated: 4 March 2025