LAWI301556 Advanced policy modelling with system dynamics

Type
Lecture and seminar
Semester hours
2
Lecturer (assistant)
Gühnemann, Astrid , Gold, Olivia , Pfaffenbichler, Paul Christian
Organisation
Transport Studies
Offered in
Wintersemester 2025/26
Languages of instruction
Englisch
Content

System dynamics models provide insight into leverage points to control and manage systems with complex interrelationships and are used in strategic planning and policy preparation in various sectors. Examples of applications include assessing the effectiveness of Austria's climate strategy measures, the effects of automation in transport, and evaluating waste management strategies. Knowledge of this method and existing system dynamics models therefore expands the methodological toolkit available to students for their future tasks in planning and policy advisory roles.

The objective of the course is to enable students to independently develop system dynamics models and apply them to current political issues. The lecture part provides a brief introduction to systems thinking and system dynamics modelling, presents qualitative and quantitative system dynamics modelling techniques and validation methods, and gives an overview of existing system dynamics applications using the example of the transport sector. Through interactive elements, such as the Fishbanks simulation developed for teaching purposes, students learn about the fundamental challenges of controlling dynamic, complex systems. Students will then work in groups to develop a system dynamics model for a current problem and present it in a seminar. Supervised tutorials and computer workshops are offered for support and assistance. Finally, a project report is required, describing the model development process and the model developed, as well as a critical discussion of the simulation results.
Previous knowledge expected

Attendance of course 856322 "System analysis, strategic planning and policy modelling with system dynamics" or equal knowledge in system analysis and modelling, basic knowledge in transport planning, e.g. course 856320 „Verkehr und Umwelt“, are strongly recommended.
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

Through instruction into the theory and case studies, as well as through the independent creation of system dynamics simulation models, students who successfully complete the course will be able to
a) apply qualitative methods for analysing and communicating complex systems in various contexts
b) develop and validate quantitative system dynamics models in policy-relevant contexts
c) use system dynamics software (Vensim)
d) critically interpret model results and report on them in summary form
e) simulate and evaluate political, strategic and development scenarios using system dynamics models.
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.