Systems Dynamics is a science that has its origins in engineering control theory, although systems concepts cross most disciplines. System Dynamics is the rigorous study of organisational problems, from a holistic or systemic perspective, where there is dynamic behaviour (quantities changing over time) and where feedback impacts significantly on system behaviour. It provides the framework and rules for qualitative description, exploration and analysis of such systems in terms of their processes, information, boundaries and strategies, thereby facilitating quantitative computer simulation modelling and analysis to assist understanding of system structure and control. This course focuses on the application of system dynamics modelling in strategic and corporate environments, with an emphasis on Defence. The course has wide applicability across technical, environmental and social systems.

On successful completion of this course you should understand:
1. The value of systems thinking and system dynamics modelling
2. The phases of system dynamics modelling methodology and their major process steps
3. What tools and techniques can be used to find out about the problem situation and collect preliminary data (i.e., problem structuring)
4. The concepts surrounding causal mapping and analysis, and methods of documenting these towards developing intervention strategies (i.e., causal mapping and analysis) and
5. The practicalities of dynamic modelling using Powersim(TM) Studio 9
6. Identify and map the relations between significant concepts, in a given problem situation, using appropriate cognitive / concept mapping conventions
7. Classify causal, connotative and conflict relationships and distinguish hiher order concepts ina cognitive / concept map
8. Apply a validation template to validate the logic and structure of a cognitive / concept map
9. Describe the interrelationships between critical elements of systems thinking and systems dynamics, and
10. Systematically apply the process steps across all phases of system dynamics modelling methodology, utilising related tools and techniques to formulate strategies to address a given problem

Distance

There are 2 assessment items in this course.
Scoping Study and Preliminary Report 35% 10 pages
Final Report and Simulation Model 65% 20 pages

Prescribed Texts:
McLucas, A.C., 2003, Decision Making: Risk Management, Systems Thinking and Situation Awareness, Argos Press, Canberra.
McLucas, A.C., 2005, System Dynamics Applications: A Modular Approach to MOdelling Complex World Behaviour, Argos Press, Canberra.
Sterman, J.D., 2000, Business Dynamics: Systems Thinking and Modelling for a Complex World, Irwin McGraw-Hill.

Recommended Texts:
A valuable guide for the writing and presentation of assignments, and for the correct method to be used when citing source materials, is:
Anderson, J. and Poole, M., 2001 (4th Ed), Assignment and Thesis Writing, Wiley.

Software:
Nil

UNSW@ADFA will supply you with a Students Course Manual. You are expected to utilise a library, ADFA Bookshop, community sources and online sources to obtain additional resources.