Systems Change Mental Models Workshop

Explore the hidden mental models underlying systems change work, and how to harness them to increase our impact

As systems change leaders, we each carry mental models—deeply held beliefs and assumptions that shape how we see the world and approach systemic problems. Often, these mental models remain unexamined, both by ourselves and others, yet they significantly influence how we understand challenges and craft solutions.

When our mental models clash with those of our colleagues, partners, funders, or evaluators, it can create friction that jeopardizes our ability to achieve systemic impact. Recognizing and addressing these conflicts is crucial for fostering effective collaboration and driving meaningful change.

In this session, we will delve into two distinct mental models of systems change (systems dynamics and systems emergence), guiding you to uncover your own and explore those held by others. Through case studies and practical exercises, we’ll examine how different types of systems and challenges align with each mental model. By the end, you’ll be equipped to identify mental models, spot potential conflicts (both between individuals and within the system itself), and use tools and strategies to align, adapt, and leverage these models as a powerful resource for systemic transformation.

This workshop session is offered in collaboration between Jewlya Lynn, Julia Coffman, and School of System Change as part of a joint effort in supporting changemakers to embrace complexity through discovering the diversity of systemic approaches and practitioners.

Is this course for me?

This workshop is open to all changemakers and is for you if you want to learn to:

• Recognize the mental models that shape systems change work.
• Understand how different types of systemic problems align with specific mental models for driving change.
• Identify your own mental model(s) and how they influence your approach to systems change.
• Learn strategies to respond to and align with the mental models of others.
• Address disconnects between individuals and organizations, including how differing mental models can hinder collaboration and shared action.

To maximise your learning, spaces on this cohort are limited. We encourage you to enrol as soon as you can to secure your place.

If you work in philanthropy and are a donor or funder, we invite you to consider the same workshop the following week on 12 February geared towards philanthropy.

Course date

This workshop will run on Wednesday 5 February 2025.

Timing

The session will be held:

08:00-10:00 PT

11:00-13:00 ET

16:00-18:00 GMT

17:00-19:00 CET

You can join from anywhere in the world, so long as you can attend the time listed above.

Check your time zone

The School of System Change is continually working to improve the financial accessibility of our courses and workshops. For this workshop we offer three rates, and ask that you select the one that fits your financial situation. It is our hope that those able to afford the higher fees help us cover costs and support others to access the discounted rates.

• Contribution Ticket: Regenerative - US $60
• Contribution Ticket: Supporter - US $45
• Contribution Ticket: Supported - US $25

For School alumni, we are delighted to offer a 20% discount. This discount is available for changemakers who have completed one of our School courses (including Basecamp, Delta, Spark and Investors in Change series). Enter code AL202520 at checkout.

If cost is a barrier to participating, please reach out to [email protected].

VAT does not apply.

We seek to create safe and brave spaces for participants from different backgrounds and lived experience to engage in learning together. We acknowledge the power and responsibility we hold in our role as a convenor and learning provider, placing multiple ways of knowing and awareness of difference as fundamental design principles in our programmes.

Read more about our commitment and journey around equity and difference.

Accessibility

If you will need additional support for your wellbeing or access needs, then please let us know as soon as possible, so we can factor this into our session design. You can let us know when you enrol or email us at [email protected] - we are happy to arrange a call to discuss how we can support your learning.

Enrolment is first come, first served until we reach our maximum cohort size, so we encourage you to enrol as soon as you can. Enrolment closes on 3 Feb at 17:00 ET. If the workshop is full before the enrolment deadline, we will start a waiting list of those interested.

Enrol

If you have any questions about this workshop, get in touch with the School team at [email protected].

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