Journal of Systemic Therapies, Vol. 35, No. 4, 2016, pp. 1–10 1 TEACHING GENERAL SYSTEMS THEORY CONCEPTS THROUGH OPEN SPACE TECHNOLOGY: REFLECTIONS FROM PRACTICE RIKKI PATTON NOELLE CHAPPELLE ULIA FISHER MOLLY MCDOWELL-BURNS MICHAEL PENNINGTON SYMPHONIE SMITH MEGAN VITEK University of Akron, Akron, Ohio While marriage and family therapists use a variety of theoretical models to conceptualize the change process, General Systems Theory (GST) is a foun- dational element of all marriage and family therapy (MFT) modalities. It is imperative that instructors provide an engaging learning experience when training MFT students in understanding systems concepts. One innovative strategy for helping students understand systems theory concepts is using Open Space Technology (OST), a learning and consultation methodology which gives voice to all participants involved in the learning process. OST utilizes any amount of time, space, and structural configuration needed for trainees to learn. The overall aim of this article is to outline the potential usefulness of OST as an innovative tool for teaching systemic principles related to GST by describing the application of OST to an Advanced Systems course. Clinicians, educators, and clinical trainees alike can use the descriptions herein to inform their own teaching and learning practices related to systems theory. Noelle Chappelle, Ulia Fisher, Molly Mcdowell-Burns, Michael Pennington, Symphonie Smith, and Megan Vitek contributed equally to the development of this manuscript and are listed alphabetically to indicate equal involvement. Address correspondence to Rikki Patton, PhD MFT, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Assistant Profes- sor, School of Counseling, College of Health Professions, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325. E-mail: rpatton@uakron.edu 1