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 Communicate blockchain technology strategies to general audiences
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
- Applications of system dynamics modelling
- Use of dimensionless multipliers
- Model validity and testing
- Applying system dynamics models to communicate results to stakeholders
ASSESSMENT METHODS
- Problem Definition and Model Conceptualisation – 20%
- System Dynamics Model Development: Part A – 10%; Part B – 30%
- Final Report and Oral Presentation – 40%
PRESCRIBED READINGS
Nil
Check with the lecturer each semester before purchasing any textbooks