Systems Intelligence: A Core Competence for Next-Generation Engineers?

Abstract

We discuss Systems Intelligence (SI), a competence related to one's ability to succeed in wholes, i.e., in systemic settings which are complex and challenging. There is special emphasis on social systems and people skills. We believe this competence needs to be included in the skillset of engineers in a modern society. The SI competence can be measured and developed, and it relates to the skillset for professionals suggested by the World Economic Forum in 2016.

Delivering an Effective Balance of Soft and Technical Skills within Project-Based Engineering Courses

“…They believe that STEM degrees need to provide a concerted effort to enhance cognitive skills alongside disciple specific knowledge, with open-ended problem solving given as a potential solution. H m l inen et al expanded on the concept of "creative" engineering graduates by comparing the 'capacity for engineering systems' (CEST) framework with generic skills mentioned by a World Economics Forum report as essential for the 4 th industrial revolution [17]. They termed "Systems Intelligence" as a conceptual way to encompass the personal mastery, systems thinking, and the emotional intelligence skills required of 21 st century engineering graduates.…”

Design science research for learning software engineering and computational thinking: Four cases

“…Recent research has bridged this componential view with the three thinking view through examples of the work of Alan Turing, on the process of building the Electronic Numerical Integrator And Computer, and on the evolution of the physical symbol system, representing the three different thinking and working styles [50]. Also, nowadays, systems intelligence (SI) [42,43] is considered to be a crucial part of engineering thinking [42], and therefore can be included in both engineering and CT curricula. A SI-inventory includes intelligence in systemic perception, attunement, positive attitude, spirited discovery, reflection, wise action, positive engagement and effective responsiveness [42].…”

“…Also, nowadays, systems intelligence (SI) [42,43] is considered to be a crucial part of engineering thinking [42], and therefore can be included in both engineering and CT curricula. A SI-inventory includes intelligence in systemic perception, attunement, positive attitude, spirited discovery, reflection, wise action, positive engagement and effective responsiveness [42].…”

“…Engineering thinking, in other words, is systems intelligence. It combines the sensitive, passionate, instinctual, prerational and subjective aspects of the human endowment with cognitive, rational and objective-related epistemology in the service of improvement with the means that are available" [42].…”

“…In addition, many stress the importance of soft skills, such as creativity, communication and critical thinking skills, often referred to as 21st century (C21) competencies [84]. In training future engineers, hard engineering skills are not enough—social skills, communication and attitudes count as well [42]. Many agree that CT, integrated STEAM, and C21 competencies are of high importance [78,84,87].…”