1 Conversations about complex issues SUZANNE TRASK, ERICA D’SOUZA, BOYD SWINBURN, AND JACQUIE BAY KEY POINTS • When discussing complex issues, the selection of a familiar learning context such as food–the infuences of food environments on food choices–reduces the initial need for high levels of conceptual knowledge. • The use of systems-thinking tools and approaches can support students to think in new ways and develop an appreciation of complexity. • Narrative pedagogies can be used to incorporate learners’ pre-existing knowledge about complex issues and support them to appreciate perspectives other than their own. SET: RESEARCH INFORMATION FOR TEACHERS ONLINE FIRST © NEW ZEALAND COUNCIL FOR EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH 2023 https://doi.org/10.18296/set.1524 https://www.nzcer.org.nz/nzcerpress/set