Systemic intelligence predictors of cognitive flexibility and cognitive holding power among university students

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the role of systemic intelligence factors in explaining cognitive flexibility and cognitive holding power among university students using measures of the aforementioned phenomena. A random sample of (519) students participated in this research, and it was found that factors relating to systemic intelligence could predict cognitive flexibility and cognitive holding power. The elements of systemic intelligence that were most adept at explaining cognitive flexibility were systemic action through positive engagement and active response, while systemic perception was the most explanatory factor in terms of cognitive holding power. The study concluded that systemic intelligence, which has perceptual, cognitive, social and behavioural facets, contributes to student performance in learning settings; consequently, it is recommended that the role of systemic intelligence should be analysed by linking elements of this form of intelligence with the different variables and integrating systemic thinking skills into different learning activities.   Keywords: systemic intelligence, cognitive flexibility, cognitive holding power.