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Digital Systems Theory

A framework for understanding how digital environments shape behaviour, cognition, interpretation, and relational meaning.

“Digital systems behave as interpretive architectures — shaping not only what we see, but how we learn to see.”

Academic Foundation

Digital Systems Theory studies how digital environments influence interpretation, behaviour, communication, and meaning flow within interconnected human–technology ecosystems.

Digital Systems Theory

This theory explains how digital infrastructures shape the flow of information, the formation of perception, and the behaviour of interconnected social, cultural, and computational systems. It examines digital environments as interpretive architectures—systems that guide, filter, and transform meaning.

Theory Details

Author:
Sarah Ailish McLoughlin
Wikidata:
Q137324326
Classification:
Digital Theory / Systems Framework

Contributing Organizations

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The Australian Advocacy Institute

Supporting research and clarity around systems-level structures that shape digital environments and their ethical implications.

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EduPsyched

Inclusion Consultant

Ensuring theory language remains accessible, especially where digital systems impact neurodivergent interpretation and cognitive load.

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EduLinked

Digital Accessibility Advisor

Ensuring that theoretical models of digital systems translate into accessible digital practice and inclusive human–technology interfaces.

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Core Concepts

Foundational principles that explain how digital systems shape behaviour, communication, and meaning within human–technology environments.

Information Flow Systems

How digital networks move, transform, prioritise, and suppress information, shaping what becomes visible, actionable, and meaningful.

Interface Behaviour Dynamics

Examines how interfaces guide user behaviour, shape cognitive expectations, and influence decision-making through design signals.

System Memory & Accumulation

The ways digital systems retain, structure, and operationalise data over time, forming patterns that influence future outcomes.

Emergent Digital Relationships

Patterns of interaction created between users, algorithms, and platforms, forming new relational dynamics not present in offline systems.

Digital Pressure Systems

How digital environments generate cognitive, emotional, and relational pressure through notification rhythms, algorithmic demands, and interface friction.

Systemic Bias & Amplification Loops

How digital systems reinforce existing biases, magnify patterns over time, and stabilise behaviours through algorithmic repetition.

How Digital Systems Theory Informs This Framework

Digital Systems Theory provides the foundational logic for understanding how meaning, behaviour, and interaction patterns evolve in algorithmic and digitally mediated environments.

Interpretive Models

Helps describe how digital systems reshape meaning through interfaces, patterns, and machine-generated interpretations.

Pattern Dynamics

Explains how repetitive structures, algorithmic loops, and emergent behaviours stabilise digital environments over time.

System Pressure Mapping

Provides tools for understanding digital friction, signal overload, and the ways systems exert behavioural pressure.

Digital Systems Theory supports evidence-based analysis of how people and technologies co-shape each other.

Contributing Organizations

These organisations support the development, integrity, and accessibility of Digital Systems Theory within the broader Advocacy and Systems Strategy ecosystem.

🏛️

The Australian Advocacy Institute

A national organisation dedicated to advancing systemic advocacy capacity and ethical influence across institutions.

Visit Website →
🧠

EduPsyched

Inclusion Consultant

Supporting cognitive accessibility, inclusive learning pathways, and neuroaffirming system design.

Learn More →

EduLinked

Digital Accessibility Advisor

Ensuring every digital touchpoint meets or exceeds contemporary accessibility standards for diverse learners.

Explore Services →

Digital Systems Theory bridges technical, cultural, and relational dimensions of digital environments, making the architecture of modern systems legible and actionable.

Provider & Partners

This theory is part of the Academic Foundation Collection and may be reproduced for educational and advocacy purposes with attribution.