IM513 Agricultural Systems Thinking and Dynamics
DESCRIPTION
This unit focuses on the concept, tools, and applications of systems thinking and system dynamics in agribusiness and agricultural systems. It includes principles of the systems thinking and system dynamics approach to analyse complex problems. Through model building exercise, it includes systems thinking/system dynamics tools including causal loops diagrams and stock and flow models. It also covers formulation of dynamic problems, system structures, and system archetypes and the validation of system dynamics models.
RELEVANT COURSES
Master of Agricultural Information Management
Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness)
Elective unit
Master of Agriculture specialisation in Agriculture Information Systems
CREDIT POINTS
10
DELIVERY MODE
On campus
Mixed mode
Online
Intensive
Extensive
PREREQUISITE OR CO-REQUISITE
IM401 Introduction to Agroinformatics
UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
LO1 Demonstrate advanced understanding of key concepts and theories within systems thinking and system dynamics
LO2 Critically evaluate complex agricultural problems using a systems thinking perspective
LO3 Critically analyse and apply system dynamics tools to understand the behaviour of complex systems over time
LO4 Synthesise complex problems based on deep understanding of the ‘archetypes’ of system dynamics to identify behaviour of systems
LO5 Build and explain system dynamics models to specialist and non-specialist audiences
CONTENT
Introduction to systems thinking and system dynamics modelling
Feedback in systems and causal Loops
From Causal Loops to simulation – system dynamics modelling
System dynamics – The modelling process
Structure and behaviour of dynamic systems
System archetypes
Stock and flow models
Simple structures and dynamics of stock and flow models
Applications of system dynamics modelling
Use of dimensionless multipliers
Model validity and testing
Applying system dynamics models to communicate results to stakeholders
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. Problem Definition and Model Conceptualisation - 20%
2. System Dynamics Model Development: Part A - 10%; Part B - 30%
3. Final Report and Oral Presentation - 40%
PRESCRIBED READINGS
Nil
Check with the lecturer each semester before purchasing any textbooks.