Introduction to System Dynamics

The aim of this special course is to give students the basic tools in System Dynamics, particularly the key terminology, practices and contents of the discipline, through a mixture of practical exercises, assignments, research projects and assistance sessions. Focus will be chiefly on the process of understanding the advantages of a systemic analysis of problems, as well as obtaining an introductory view of the main concepts involved in system dynamics analysis.

A student who has met the objectives of the course will be able to:
* Identify the main purpose and concepts of system dynamics
* Outline the different stages in building a system dynamics model
* Define a problem as well as the model purpose
* Develop a causal loop diagram, understanding its components, relationships and restrictions
* Map the stock and flow structure of systems
* Develop a Stock and Flow Model and link its results with the model purpose
* Use specialized system dynamics software (VENSIM), and be able to implement simple system dynamics models in Excel. Experience using System Dynamics packages for Python.