Dear Readers and Thinkers,

Survival is about systems. When we understand a system and start to think outside of ourselves, we think with a multi-lens approach. In this work we think, problem solve, and question like a geographer, an explorer, and journalist/writer. When we begin to think and act in this way, we can influence conditions by recognizing and uncovering how people's mental models impact their beliefs, values, and actions. Understanding this helps us organize and develop ideas while using strategies to explore alternative ways of thinking. To accomplish this we need to seek ideas and perspectives from others, including those that are contradictory - we do this to evaluate, refine and test the thoughts and ideas we've explored, questioned, developed and created collaboratively.

As we watch out systems advance and evolve over time, we also notice the commonalities. Human sentered systems require experitse and specific skill stes in order to solve problems. They rely on advanced communication and informatiion systems that are interconnected. This aquisition of knowledge equips us to engage in solution focused work that is rooted in complex thinking and ingenuity.

Devise an approach using systems thinking (ELA compentency: Discerning Researcher)

See influence of mental models on perspectives and actions (ELA Competency: Discerning Researcher)

Surface and test mental models

recognize influence and origins of beliefs and actions (ELA Competency: Discerning Researcher)

Leverage actions that lead to desired outcomes (ELA Competency: Discerning researcher)

Exchange complex information and ideas through justifiable modes to effectively meeT the need of diverse individuals and groups (ELA competency: discerning researcher)