• Barton, J., Stephens, J., & Haslett, T. (2009). Action research: Its foundations in open systems thinking and relationship to the scientific method. Systemic Practice and Action Research, 22(6), 475-488. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11213-009-9148-6
• Flood, R. L. (2010). The relationship of 'systems thinking' to action research. Systemic Practice and Action Research, 23(4), 269-284. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11213-010-9169-1

Based on the above readings, As you continue to integrate action research (AR), appreciative inquiry (AI), or process consultation (PC) into your work, how do you see the connections and interrelationships between systems thinking and the methods that you will use in your consulting engagement? Address the following:

• What is systems theory?
• How does systems theory apply to AR?
• How does systems theory apply to AI?
• How does systems theory apply to PC?
• Describe and define socio-technical systems theory.
• What is an open system? Provide an example.
• What is a closed system? Provide an example.