Bellevue University
BISC 303
Fundamentals of Systems
Theory
Prerequisite: Acceptance
in the Business Information Systems accelerated degree program.
Credit:
3 Credit Hours
Catalog
Description: This
course examines open and closed systems within the context of several
environmental models. Specifically,
information systems, global systems, and common business systems will be
examined. Additionally communication,
behavioral, and change systems will be examined.
Mission: The mission of the accelerated Business
Information Systems Program
is to provide the history, philosophy, knowledge, skills and tools that are
necessary for students in the professional field of Information Technology so
as to become successful supervisors, managers, and leaders in their chosen
field.
Objectives: Students who
successfully complete this course should be able to:
1.
Define open and closed systems.
2.
Differentiate between simple and complex
systems.
3.
Examine systems approaches to managing
information and people.
4.
Contrast and explore systems thinking in
comparison to traditional thinking.
Course
Outline:
1.
Systems (Obj. 1)
A. Open
Systems
B. Closed
Systems
2.
Simple and Complex Systems (Obj. 2)
A. Simple
Systems
B. Complex
Systems
3.
Using Systems Thinking in the Workplace (Obj. 3)
A. To
Manage Information
B. To
Manage People
4.
Systems Thinking Versus Traditional Thinking
(Obj. 4)
A. Traditional
Thinking to Solve Problems or Issues
B. Systems
Thinking to Solve Problems or Issues
General Assignments and
Evaluation of Student Work: Grading is based on the
quality, thoroughness, and timeliness of class discussions, class
presentations, and written assignments.
A student will only pass the course by participating in all class
sessions – actively, extensively, and thoroughly – as well as submitting all
written assignments on time, and in a thorough and professional manner.
Assessment
of student progress is based upon satisfactory completion of all assignments
during the course. Specifically, the
student is required to demonstrate acquisition of the factual knowledge
contained in the assigned readings through class discussions and by competency
displayed in writing. Class
participation/interaction, reflection of student and instructor comments and
discussion are also evaluated for assessment purposes. Critical thinking is also assessed by
examining the student's approach to problem analysis, decision making, and
problem solving.
Course/Program
Assessment: In
accordance with the stated objectives, assessment will occur at the self, peer,
and instructor levels. Students will be
assessed by the completion of written assignments, oral projects, and group
discussions.
Signatures:
____________________________________________________________________
Originator Date
____________________________________________________________________
Program Director Date
____________________________________________________________________
Academic Review
Committee Date
____________________________________________________________________
Dean, College of
Professional Studies Date
____________________________________________________________________
Provost Date
Resources
Required
Text and/or Materials:
1. Senge,
Peter M., The Fifth Discipline: The Art and Practice of the Learning Organization;
Doubleday
2. Rauchut,
Ed and Ilga, Don't Worry (It's Not as Bad as You Think) (3rd Edition);
Harper Business
