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Six articles to introduce the use of system dynamics in K-12 education
Six articles to introduce the use of system dynamics in K-12 education
Jay Forrester
Revised in 2009, this paper was originally the keynote address for the 1994 Systems Thinking and Dynamic Modeling Conference for K-12 Education at Concord Academy, Concord, MA. Addresses: Developing Personal Skills, Outlook and Personality, Understanding
Barry Richmond
A general overview of Systems Thinking and an interesting paper to read to get the perspective of a professional system dynamicist
Deb Lyneis
This paper explains how system dynamics is introduced and sustained in schools, outlining some of the many generous contributions that have made the early growth of K-12 system dynamics possible, and giving readers resources and practical suggestions for how they too can participate. Updated by the Creative Learning Exchange in 2013
Deb Lyneis
This paper offers an explanation of how system dynamics would "look" and work in a curriculum, using the gypsy moth caterpillar as a concrete example of its application in a science curriculum. A simple presentation which clearly demonstrates how to start using and understanding basic system dynamics and modeling
Deb Lyneis & Davida Fox-Melanson
This paper describes the process of developing and implementing system dynamics lessons in the Carlisle, MA Public Schools. Using one lesson as an example, it will illustrate what the children do and what they learn. It also presents the problems of imbedding the lesson and the systems approach into the curriculum.
Deb Lyneis
An answer to the request "Explain what systems thinking is and what it has to do with educating children," in a few more than 25 words
Systems Principles
Systems principles are key ideas that repeat across time and within multiple contexts.
Barry Richmond’s Systems Thinking Skills
This set of thinking skills provides a framework for looking at any situation, whether current, theoretical, or historical. Practice the skills one at a time or in concert with one another.
Introduction to Behavior Over Time Graphs (BOTGs)
BOTGs are usually a good starting point. Find data where possible and be clear when graphs represent mental models versus research findings.
Connection Circles (CCs)
CCs are used for identifying important elements in a system and how they affect each other. Tracing causal connections can help find feedback loops.
Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs)
Complex systems usually have “competing loops” – try to find reinforcing loops and balancing loops that may be in conflict.
Stock/Flow Diagrams and System Dynamics Models
Stock/Flow Diagrams show how things actually work. System Dynamics models use math to simulate Stock/Flow diagrams over time.
Naming and Labeling
Tips and techniques to help with naming and labeling in Causal Loop Diagrams and Stock/Flow models.
Simulations
Simulations help compress time and space, so rather than having to wait a hundred years to see a particular result, a simulator can reveal that result quickly and in a contained space, either real or virtual.
Iceberg Visual
The iceberg provides a frame for looking beyond events to exploring a system more deeply - looking for trends, structures and mental models within. Because complex systems problems resist change, seeing a system through the lens of an iceberg can help reveal what’s generating behaviors seen.
Archetypes and other Generic Models
Archetypes (and other generic models) can help in the transfer of knowledge about a specific subject to other situations. Viewing behavior in a broader interdisciplinary context can reveal repeating patterns and increase understanding of potential outcomes that may be counterproductive to one’s goals.
System Dynamics Modeling Software
System Dynamics Modeling software comes in many shapes and sizes. One size does not fit all. These are a few that may be helpful for beginners who wish to get into more sophisticated modeling.
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