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Unit of study_
BUDL3901: Unravelling Complex Problems
2025 unit information
There is often no single, one-size-fits-all solution to problems. This is because our complex world is dynamic and interdependent, where multiple stakeholders with competing interests are deeply and widely interconnected. We need to make decisions in this complex, rapidly changing context with incomplete information. Solving complex problems requires not only innovative thinking, but also a multidisciplinary perspective that draws on higher-order thinking. Guided by complex systems theory and higher-level analytical approaches, we engage in the process of enquiry to grasp the complexity of some of the world’s wickedest problems. We draw on strategic thinking, systems thinking, design thinking, and other higher-order thinking skills to help in the understanding and solutioning of complex problems. In cross-disciplinary teams, we devise different ways of insightfully tackling major issues and proposing innovative and practical approaches for positive social change.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Business (Business School)
| Study level | Undergraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Accounting |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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must be in the Dalyell stream |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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Please note that where this unit of study is on offer in either the Intensive January or the Intensive February session, the classes for these sessions commence prior to semester one |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Explain the unique characteristics and challenges of complex problems.
- LO2. Craft a clear problem statement.
- LO3. Analyse a complex problem with a multidisciplinary and multidimensional perspective.
- LO4. Evaluate alternative courses of action and propose complex problem solutions that synthesise multiple dimensions and perspectives.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
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Semester 1 2025
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Normal day | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
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Semester 2 2025
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Normal day | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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