Systems thinking and modelling as a framework for sustainability analysis and action

Systems thinking refers to the ability to collectively analyze the inner fabric and dynamics of complex systems across different domains (society, environment, economy, etc.) and across different scales (local to global). Such understanding is a prerequisite for identifying intervention points, anticipating future trajectories and facilitating transition processes. The ability to analyze complex systems includes comprehending, empirically verifying, and articulating their structure, key components, and dynamics using methods and methodologies such as qualitative and quantitative modelling.

This course introduces the theory, tools and techniques for systems thinking and modelling as a way of analyzing sustainability problems and deriving actionable insights to overcome them. It does so by working on case studies describing complex sustainability challenges. Students will use systems thinking and modelling to address these challenges.

The process of systems thinking and modeling facilitates better understanding of system complexity and how our decisions affect system behaviour through abstractions and simplifications of the real world.

On completion of this course the students should have the following competencies defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general learning outcomes:

Knowledge

The student

• can apply and critically account for systems thinking tools;
• can use methods for scenario development and multiple criteria decision analysis methods
• can carry out the system dynamics modelling process from problem definition to policy analysis.

Skills

Students can:

• critically assess various systems thinking and modelling approaches;
• use different scenario frameworks for describing existing as well as possible future system configurations and outcomes;
• use multiple criteria decision analysis in the context of sustainable development challenges.

General competence

This course has a strong focus on communication and collaboration skills. In particular, students should have the following general competences:

• critical thinking and reflection;
• solve (authentic) problems in interdisciplinary groups;
• present work (individually and in teams);
• comment on work of others and respond to comments on own work.