System Map
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shangchimaster23System Map
Uploaded by
shangchimaster23System Maps
Session Preparation
Logistics: For a class of 40 students [Group Activity – Groups of 4]
Materials Required:
ITEM QUANTITY
Computers 10
Chart Paper 10
Sketch-Pens 40
Resources:
Link to make System maps Online using an Animated tool: https://ncase.me/loopy/
Purpose: The purpose of this section is introduce the concepts System Maps and
its elements, relationships and feedback loops.
Say: “Now that we have listed all the Data features, let us look at the concept of
System Maps. System Maps help us to find relationships between different
elements of the problem which we have scoped. It helps us in strategizing the
solution for achieving the goal of our project. Here is an example of a System very
familiar to you – Water Cycle. The major elements of this system are mentioned
here. Take a look at these elements and try to understand the System Map for this
system. Also take a look at the relations between all the elements. After this, make
your own system map for the data features which you have listed. You can also
use the online animated tool for creating your System Maps.”
Brief:
We use system maps to understand complex issues with multiple factors that
affect each other. In a system, every element is interconnected. In a system map,
we try to represent that relationship through the use of arrows. Within a system
map, we will identify loops. These loops are important because they represent a
specific chain of causes and effects. A system typically has several chains of
causes and effects. You may notice that some arrows are longer than others. A
longer arrow represents a longer time for a change to happen. We also call this a
time delay. To change the outcome of a system, as a change maker, we have two
options - change the elements in a system or change the relationships between
elements. It is usually more effective to change the relationship between
elements in a system. You may also notice the use of ‘+’ signs and ‘-’ signs. These
are an indicator of the nature of the relationship between elements. What we did
was a very basic introduction to systems thinking, you can use Google to find
more detailed information on how to make systems maps.
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A system map shows the components and boundaries of a system and the components of the
environment at a specific point in time. With the help of System Maps, one can easily define
a relationship amongst different elements which come under a system. Relating this concept
to our module, the Goal of our project becomes a system whose elements are the data
features mentioned above. Any change in these elements changes the system outcome too.
For example, if a person received 200% increment in a month, then this change in his salary
would affect the prediction of his future salary. The more the increment presently, the more
salary in future is what the system would predict. Here is a sample System Map:
The Water Cycle
The concept of Water cycle is very simple to understand and is known to all. It explains how
water completes its cycle transforming from one form to another. It also adds other elements
which affect the water cycle in some way.
The elements which define the Water cycle system are:
Clouds Snow Underground Soil Rivers
Oceans Trees Land Animals
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Let us draw the System Map for the Water Cycle now.
In this System Map, all the elements of the Water cycle are put in circles. The map here shows
cause & effect relationship of elements with each other with the help of arrows. The arrow-
head depicts the direction of the effect and the sign (+ or -) shows their relationship. If the
arrow goes from X to Y with a + sign, it means that both are directly related to each other.
That is, If X increases, Y also increases and vice versa. On the other hand, If the arrow goes
from X to Y with a – sign, it means that both the elements are inversely related to each other
which means if X increases, Y would decrease and vice versa.
Now, it’s your turn to build your own System Map!
Considering the data features for your problem, draw a system map in the box provided.
(Hint: You can also use this animated tool for drawing and understanding system maps:
https://ncase.me/loopy/)
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