Lecture B3 - Morecroft (2010), Chapter 2, Introduction to Feedback Systems Thinking (2020-01-30)

In this lecture, we discuss content from Chapter 2 out of Morecroft (2010), which introduces feedback systems thinking. We focus on including enough aspects of a system to form loops in causal loop diagrams and how certain combinations of loops often lead to certain predictable modes of behavior. We close with an example of how modeling coupled showers in a hotel gives us insight into other systems with interdependencies.

Lecture B2 - Drawing Causal Loop Diagrams in Vensim (2020-01-28)

Primarily an introduction to using the Vensim PLE software tool to draw causal loop diagrams (CLD's) that are fit to be included in reports and presentations (or as the first stage of a more-involved system dynamics modeling process leading up to stock-and-flow diagrams). Also includes a few CLD construction/repairing examples within the presentation.

Lecture B1 - Introduction to Causal Loop Diagrams (2020-01-23)

In this lecture, we motivate the use of causal loop diagrams (CLD's) to better understand how feedback loops interact in complex systems. We introduce the CLD, how to draw them, how to find and label the loops, and the basic method of identifying patterns of loops that have commonly associated behavior over time.

Lecture A3 - Morecroft (2010), Chapter 1, Appeal and Power of Strategic Modeling (2020-01-21)

This lecture covers Chapter 1 of Morecroft (2010), which focuses on the Appeal and Power of Strategic Modeling. We introduce the modeling continuum (from analog to metaphorical) and discuss how increasing realism in models can come at the cost of reducing generality. We then using the iThink software to show how simple stock-and-flow models can be simulated on a computer to reveal interesting behaviors over time.

Lecture A2 - Introduction to Modeling (2020-01-16)

Further discussion of what is a "model" (in general), highlighting a wide variety of models including those instantiated in the physical world (such as laboratory model systems) to those formed within the mind (mental models). We then discuss the strengths and weaknesses of quantitative models (relative to mental models), the three different uses of quantitative modeling, and the three different kinds of simulation modeling (with an emphasis on system dynamics modeling).

Lecture A1 - Course Introduction (2020-01-14)

Introduces the course, its structure, and its policies. Also begins to introduce the notion of a "model" and the kinds of system dynamics models that will be covered in the course.