Teaching Systems Thinking and System Dynamics in Engineering, Ecology and Environmental Sciences: A Concise Course Based on the Water Management and Population Dynamics Models

Abstract

Systems Thinking and adequate modelling skills related to System Dynamics (SD) are essential for sustainable functioning of human society. The process of learning these skills can be considerably facilitated through hands-on experience with modern interactive tools in a play-like activity. Here we present a concise hands-on course on SD Modelling and Systems Thinking, give a brief description of its teaching materials (available online for free download), and discuss its potential developments, overall relevance and further implications. The course contains a session on 'Systems Thinking', and two hands-on sessions aiming to provide basic and more advanced modelling skills. Central to the latter are the examples of structural modifications for the Ebbsfleet Garden City water management model. The model represents complex processes associated with a multitude of interconnected social, technical and environmental issues. This publication provides both an important update of this model incorporating a dimensional analysis and the handson teaching support designed to aid knowledge transfer. It is envisaged that, with modifications, this freely downloadable course could be of use for modules related to a wide range of fundamental and applied disciplines, including e.g., Ecology, Geography, Engineering, Social and Environmental Sciences. It is expected that University students and other users will not only benefit from enhancing their understanding of the complexity of the specific problems considered by the examples used, but will also gain valuable basic system modelling skills through 'learning by doing'. The teaching materials presented here may be particularly useful for environmental projects involving participatory approaches.

Revolutionizing Higher Education Teaching Evaluation with Interactive Mobile and Mixed Reality: A Methodological and Applied Analysis

“…In the realm of higher education, educational evaluation serves as a fundamental component of the quality assurance system, primarily tasked with supervising and encouraging the continuous advancement of educational and teaching methodologies [1][2][3]. The progression of educational technology, especially the emergence of mixed reality (MR) technology, has positioned it as a key driver of innovation within educational fields.…”

Determinants of Air Quality in Building Environments: A Multi-Regression Analysis and Implications for Open Teaching Practices

“…Yet, with the rapid advancements in the field, traditional pedagogies appear inadequate, often failing to align with real-world imperatives. Herein lies the promise of adaptive teaching modalities, particularly open teaching methodologies, which are positioned to revolutionize the educational landscape, guaranteeing that students are both technically proficient and intrinsically innovative [11,12].…”

Online Sharing Mechanism of Teaching Resources from the Perspective of Knowledge Management

“…Compared with traditional resource management methods, analyzing online sharing of teaching resources from the perspective of knowledge management helps Online Sharing Mechanism of Teaching Resources from the Perspective of Knowledge Management understand the value and significance of teaching resources more deeply, as well as how to maximize their effectiveness [7][8][9][10][11]. Especially in the current context of the knowledge economy, teaching resources are not only carriers of information but also the key to knowledge innovation and dissemination [12][13][14][15]. Therefore, research on the new online sharing mechanism for teaching resources not only promotes innovation in educational technology but also helps improve the quality and efficiency of education.…”