By the end of the course, students will be able to
a) describe complex systems using qualitative methods (Causal-Loop-Diagrams)
b) make statements about the basic system behaviour (dynamic equilibrium, exponential growth)
c) develop and program (simple) quantitative dynamic models of complex systems
d) simulate the behaviour of these systems quantitatively
e) use sensitivity analysis to assess the robustness of results
The course teaches technology impact assessment with the help of System Dynamics in transport planning.
The main objectives of the course are as follows:
a) Understand the principles of complex, dynamic systems
b) Learn methods to communicate and discuss complex relationships
c) Utilise qualitative and quantitative methods from System Dynamics to improve system understanding
The 1st lecture gives an introduction into System Thinking in general and qualitative System Dynamics methods like Causal Loop Diagrams.
The 2nd and 3rd lecture are dedicated to an introduction into quantitative System Dynamics modelling. The principles of Stock-Flow-Modelling, generic recurring model structures and System Archetypes will be presented. Furthermore students will be introduced to the software Vensim(r) PLE.
In the 4th lecture students will play Fishbanks Ltd, a multiplayer simulation developed by Dennis Meadows, John Sterman and Andrew King. Participants learn about the challenges of managing resources sustainably in a common pool resource setting, with realistic resource dynamics.
The 5th lecture date is dedicated to hand out the problems, which should be analysed, modeled and simulated by the students in group works. The course ends with a presentation of the results of the group works.
The course will be held in English and in cooperation with Institute for Transport Studies of BOKU.
Please refer to the TUWEL course for dates and venues!
