Systems Thinking in Public Health

Systems thinking is a way of understanding and managing complex problems. This unit examines how systems thinking approaches, methodologies and tools can be used to understand and find solutions to complex health problems to improve population health and heath equity. The challenges and opportunities of using systems thinking in real-world settings are examined considering the different levels and ways systematic approaches can be used in the practice of public health. The concept of systems thinking in health system strengthening is also explored. Students will use systems thinking methods and tools including participatory modelling, causal loop and stock and flow diagrams to analyse problems, integrate multiple perspectives and to propose strategies and policies to address complex health problems.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Justify the application of systems thinking to analyse and address complex public health problems;
2. Apply systems thinking methods and skills to gain multiple perspectives on the nature of complex public health problems;
3. Critically assess how systems thinking can be used as an approach to health system strengthening and to improve decision making in the practice of public health; and
4. Propose policies, strategies and interventions using systems thinking skills to promote efficient and equitable gains in population health for diverse communities including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.