Int'l Experts Lead Cadets Intro to Systems Engineering

Doctors Laura and Derek Cabrera, internationally recognized experts in systems thinking from Cornell University and authors of Systems Thinking Made Simple: New Hope for Solving Wicked Problems, led a seminar for 98 cadets in the Introduction to Systems Engineering course in Cullum Hall. During the seminar, Dr. Cabrera introduced the mental modeling construct “Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives” (DSRP) for understanding complex systems and approaching wicked problems. Cadets then employed the model with the use of “Think Blocks” to tackle the problem of refugee radicalization in Europe. This methodology and education will greatly help cadets both in the course and as they do their course project, but, more importantly, as they progress to greater positions of leadership in the Army and are faced with complex, ill-defined problems.