I.   Key Assumptions of Structural Functional Theories

         A. Reality is structured prior to human intervention.
 

         B. These theories stress synchrony or stability over
              diachrony or change.
 

         C. These theories emphasize unintended consequences or
              outcomes rather than planned or purposeful ones.
 

         D. These theories make a sharp separation between
              language and reality.
 
 

    II. Example: Systems Theory

        A. Roots (Hegel/Marx, Darwin/Spencer, Von Bertalanffy).
 
 

        B. System Defined & Modeled

             1. Defined
 

             2. Closed vs. Open systems
 

             3. Key Systems Theory Concepts

                a) input
 

                b) throughput
 

                c) output
 

                d) feedback & cybernetics
 

                e) positive and negative feedback
 

                 f) environment
 

                g) wholeness & interdependence
 

                h) hierarchy
 

                i) entropy & negative entropy
 

                j) balance or homeostasis
 

                k) change and morphogenesis
 

                l) equifinality
 

        C. Systems Theory Concepts Applied

             1. The Small Group as a System
 

             2. Families as systems
 

             3. Organizations as Systems

                a) Read Senge

                b) Exercise 1: Discussion questions.
 

               4. Exercise 2: Case Study -  Planning a Convention