Abstract for: Adaptation of Systems Thinking in the K-12 International Baccalaureate Program

We live in a time when we need a holistic view of the world of which we are a part, and which we affect and are affected by. It is therefore important for us to learn, and teach others, to see the world from this perspective. In this paper, examples will be given of learning activities compatible with national and international education programs that seek to encourage a systems thinking approach and to develop a new way of understanding. The different activities presented here are suitable for various age groups. For each activity, behavior over time graphs, stock flow diagrams, causal loop diagrams and ladders of inference were developed and used as systems thinking tools. During these activities, it was observed that the children were capable of viewing events with the tools provided, understanding these tools and using them to engage with the subject matter. As a result, they were found to respond more clearly to the questions contained in the International Baccalaureate inquiry program and to be enthusiastic about taking action as individuals. Three of the activities were related to the environment and developed awareness about it.