Defining Systems Alternatively to Diagrams

 

When considering mediums available to help people understand the inter and intraconnectedness of a system I think of the program google earth.  To be able to "fly" around inside of a system and turn in any direction to see what is linked to what and where and how is a very valuable tool.  It creates a spacial relationship as well as a connectedness to what is being observed.  3D models give the ability to immerse yourself inside of a system.  It gives the ability to see from inside a system looking out at the relationships of one element to another.  You become a part of the system.  It's kind of like looking into a pool of clear water from the surface and seeing objects in it and being able to identify the objects and then diving in and being able to experience the objects within their habitat.  It's so much more personal and interactive when being immersed in an element that is difficult to grasp when looking at it from the 2D perspective of a diagram.  The message resonates within the intellect because of the immersion within the experience and the cogent inclusion of more senses connected to human cognition.

I also consider and enjoy the kinesthetic approach to learning about the shearing capabilities of rotten snow layers by digging a pit and isolating a column of snow and tapping a shovel on top of the column to see where, how and when the shear will occur and experience this event hands on.  It is one thing to describe the event in a classroom or even through a video of the event and quite another thing to experience it through the senses first hand.  It has a lasting impact about the danger that is faced when in the back country traveling on and around deep snow levels.  Especially when the shear is created with very little energy being transmitted to the snow column like just a few little taps onto the shovel.  It really drives home the message of just how fragile and unmitigable the snowpack hazards can be at times.  The message resonates within the body because of the tactile and energetic connection to the event.