Organisations around the world increasingly recognise an urgent need for the right expertise to face the challenges and complexities of the 21st century.
That expertise is more than just a technical understanding of emerging technologies—it is also a critical awareness of how these technologies interact with wider cultural, social, economic, political, and ecological systems. The School of Cybernetics is bringing the transdisciplinary practice of cybernetics to the world through innovative research-informed Learning Experiences for industry, government, and communities.
We offer future-minded Learning Experiences designed to equip today’s leaders, creatives, and change-makers with approaches to address the challenges of our technology futures. From leading through the uncertainty generated by novel technologies to engaging with AI from fresh perspectives, our Learning Experiences guide participants to shape and create the better, fairer, and safer systems of the future.
Coming Up#
Shaping our AI futures| 16 and 17 September 2025#
- Mode: 2 days, in-person, fully catered
- Location: Canberra, ACT
- Fee: $3150 per person (ex. GST)
What does it mean to be a leader in the 21st century? In times of technological, ecological and social change, just keeping the rudder steady can seem an overwhelming task.
In this two-day learning experience, we’ll explore the challenges of leading people, policy and organisations through rapid change fuelled by AI, and how a cybernetic approach can help you guide, observe and thrive from anywhere in complex and adaptive systems.
On the first day, we’ll dive into the origins and workings of AI systems and establish some foundations that will support you to better navigate the opportunities and risks of these technologies.
On the second day, we’ll introduce four key principles of cybernetic leadership and guide you in how to implement them in practical ways in your own work to shape the AI futures you want to see.
Throughout this experience, you’ll apply new tools to real and emerging AI use cases. We’ll imagine hopeful futures with AI and examine how you can position yourself, your team and your organisation to bring these futures to life in the complex environment of the present. We’ve designed this course for professionals and public servants who are interested in and passionate about making change through the responsible use of new technologies. No technical expertise is required to participate in this course.
Learning Outcomes:
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Develop a foundational understanding of AI technologies and a vocabulary for explaining and framing AI systems
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Learn to apply systemic thinking for the responsible implementation and governance of AI systems
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Build confidence and resilience to act purposefully in the face of complexity
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Walk away with tools and strategies to help you navigate change in your own context
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Connect with peers from a breadth of sectors and disciplines to inspire new approaches to shared problems
Group booking discounts available. Please contact lxconvenor.cybernetics@anu.edu.au to receive payment instructions for groups of 3 or more.
Bespoke packages created for your organisation#
Our Learning Experiences are customisable to your needs. Our modules can be delivered off-the-shelf for your organisation or combined and tailored to best fit your specific requirements and learning objectives.
We can work with you to co-design a bespoke package that responds to the context of your organisation or sector. That might look like an intensive half-day workshop in your city for senior executives, or a 4-day education bootcamp at our coastal campus. Learn more in our Program Guide which can be downloaded below.
More information#
Please download our Program Guide for more information on our Learning Experiences and packages on offer.
Testimonials
“It was great learning from experts who are both knowledgeable and passionate. They presented technical concepts in an engaging and relatable manner.” — Multinational professional services organisation
“The course provided a fresh perspective to my previous learnings in leadership. The tools presented will be especially useful in my current role which is aiming to inspire, educate, inform and lead our organisational exploration of emerging and disruptive technology.” — Australian Public Service
“The session prompted me to reflect on some of the ways I interact with various stakeholders, from technical IT personnel to broad systems thinkers. The course gave space to consider the unintended nature of activities, and the four cybernetic principles will be a useful tool in my job.” — Research organisation, Australian Government
“Loved how the team managed the day, especially the well-supported interactive sessions that encouraged deep discussions.” — Higher Education Institution
Contact#
For further information; and for enquiries please contact our Learning Experience team lxconvenor.cybernetics@anu.edu.au
