2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

TRAN5191M System Dynamics: Modelling Policy

15 creditsClass Size: 30

Module manager: Prof Simon Shepherd
Email: S.P.Shepherd@its.leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module develops an understanding of the structure and dynamics of complex systems primarily in the field of transport. Students will learn how to apply causal loop techniques enabling them to communicate ideas and model structures effectively. Practical application skills will be developed through coursework based on the VENSIM system dynamics platform developing quantitative modelling techniques applied to real life policy examples such as policies designed to influence the adoption rate of alternative fuel vehicles.

Objectives

To develop students’ understanding of the concept of system dynamics and systems thinking within a transportation context. To understand how to conceptualise a system dynamics model, and how to form basic causal loop diagrams, and stock-flow models.

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:

1. develop and understand how to conceptualise a model and understand the structure and dynamics of complex systems.
2. apply causal loop techniques enabling them to communicate ideas and model structures effectively.
3. understand underlying behaviour of dynamic systems and the concepts of stocks and flows.
4. practical application skills will be developed through coursework based on the VENSIM system dynamics platform and coursework aimed at developing quantitative modelling techniques and apply these techniques to real-life policy examples, e.g. policies to affect the take up of alternative fuel vehicles.


Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:

5. Digital: Ability to research data and relevant research articles to support model development.
6. Academic: Critical thinking, referencing, academic writing.
7. Technical: Able to implement a quantitative model.

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lectures	9	1.00	9.00
seminars	1	2.00	2.00
Practicals	9	1.00	9.00
Independent online learning hours			30.00
Private study hours			100.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			150.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students will be monitored via two courseworks. The first will develop their understanding of causal loop diagrams and be based on group work in class. The second coursework involves understanding a piece of work from a journal paper and developing a model

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Assignment	Coursework	20.00
Assignment	Coursework	80.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 17/04/2024

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