IA 341. System Dynamics Modeling, Simulation And Analysis:
System dynamics analysis is a perspective and a set of conceptual and computing tools to help us understand the structure and dynamics of complex systems. This course will apply system dynamics analysis to complex systems (problems) that involve the interplay of physical and social-political factors. The course is team oriented, project based and grounded in the relevant legal and ethical context.
Learning Objectives:
Students will develop knowledge and skills to
- describe and illustrate a system dynamics approach to problem identification and problem solving
- use conceptual tools for systems thinking and analysis, for example, causal loop diagrams, stock and flow analysis, …
- use computer tools for modeling and simulation of dynamic systems, e.g., Stella and VenSim.
- describe and use system dynamics model testing and validation methods
- present research results in standard IC and CI written and oral formats
Course Outline:
- introduction to (learning in and about) complex systems
- system dynamics in action: the dynamics of policy and unintended consequences.
- the modeling process
- structure and behavior of dynamic systems
- problem articulation and dynamic hypotheses of system behavior
- tools for modeling complex dynamic systems
- project presentations
