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    Overview

    Examines the tools and thinking necessary to deal with uncertainty and complexity in business. Provides students with critical awareness of dynamic changes in business environments.

    In our increasingly interconnected world, leaders and decision makers face significant challenges in navigating complexity, uncertainty, and conflict. This course will introduce students to hard, soft, and critical systems thinking methodologies and develop skills in applying systems concepts and approaches for managing complex organisational problems.

    About this paper

    Paper title Systems Thinking and Practice
    Subject Doctor of Business Administration
    EFTS 0.1667
    Points 20 points
    Teaching period(s) 1st Non standard period (4 May 2026 - 26 June 2026) (Distance learning)
    1st Non standard period (4 May 2026 - 26 June 2026) (On campus)
    Delivery mode The Distance Learning offering of this paper is a combination of remote and in-person teaching
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $1,665.83
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Limited to
    DBA
    Eligibility

    Limited to DBA

    Contact

    otago-dba@otago.ac.nz

    Teaching staff

    To be confirmed.

    Paper Structure

    This paper includes a compulsory on-campus component.

    Teaching Arrangements

    The Distance Learning offering of this paper is a combination of remote and in-person teaching.

    Textbooks

    Readings will be available through Blackboard.

    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Critical thinking, Ethics, Information literacy, Research.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    Students who successfully complete the paper will gain:

    • A highly developed understanding of the theoretical and practical contribution of a variety of business strategies on organisational and individual performance and how effective strategic decision making can impact performance.
    • A highly developed understanding of the theoretical and practical implications of dynamic business environments and the systems that underpin business success.

    Timetable

    1st Non standard period (4 May 2026 - 26 June 2026)

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught through Distance Learning
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Block Teaching

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Wednesday 08:00-15:50 26
    Thursday 08:00-15:50 26
    Friday 08:00-15:50 26

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Tuesday 09:00-10:50 19-25

    1st Non standard period (4 May 2026 - 26 June 2026)

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Block Teaching

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Wednesday 08:00-15:50 26
    Thursday 08:00-15:50 26
    Friday 08:00-15:50 26

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Tuesday 09:00-10:50 19-25
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