ABSTRACT

This chapter considers a range of conceptions and theories of change to inform discussion about the systemic brokerage function. Systemic brokering is a form of change agency for an infinitely complex and unpredictable world. Complexity theory provides the most useful insights into the behaviours of complex institutional social systems. Brokerage aimed at promoting and supporting change in teaching and learning practices must address this world of complexity. In contrast to the messy, unpredictable, emergent and dynamic view of change embodied in complexity theory, organizational development views the world of change as a rational process that can be planned, managed and controlled. Systemic change that is promoted as part of a process of reform within a particular paradigm must be underpinned by an explicit moral purpose if it is to engage a whole Higher Education system or organization. The cultural and intellectual dynamics of disciplines vide an important context for the way academic communities respond to change.