Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2018 - REM 412 D100

Environmental Modeling (3)

Class Number: 9669

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 18, 2018
    Wed, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    REM 100 or EVSC 100; BISC 204 or GEOG 215; STAT 101 or 201 or 203 or 270 or equivalent; 60 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Students receive hands-on experience in the construction and analysis of computer simulation models of environmental and ecological systems and problems. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

Today's most important environmental challenges involve a complex suite of interactions and feedback effects that link our social and economic choices to natural system processes. To understand how our choices affect social-ecological sustainability, we need to learn how to reduce complexity to manageable levels. System dynamics and systems modelling are effective, interdisciplinary methods for representing complex systems in ways that allow us to study and learn from them.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course is an introduction to system dynamics concepts and systems analysis techniques for studying environmental issues. The tools and techniques of quantitative analysis and computer modelling provide a "learn-by-doing" experience in which students break through the technical barriers of developing models, implementing them on a computer, and communicating results. After completing REM 412, students will be able to:

  1. Understand and demonstrate how system dynamics principles (i.e., stocks, flows, and feedback) apply to a range of environmental systems and management problems;
  2. Recognise the six fundamental dynamic patterns, identify their primary causes, and describe example systems in which they might appear;
  3. Transfer a simple environmental problem description into an abstract conceptual model, implement a quantitative version of the model using STELLA® system dynamics software, and explain the primary processes governing the system's behaviour;
  4. Understand how social systems influence natural resource systems and identify methods for estimating that impact;
  5. Critically evaluate basic environmental management policies (e.g., flow over a dam) by testing sensitivity to modelling assumptions;
  6. Work collaboratively in a modelling team to solve more complex environmental problems (e.g., evaluating a clean vehicle feebate system);
  7. Communicate the rationale, approach, results, and implications of a system dynamics research project to management stakeholders.

Grading

  • Weekly Assignments 30%
  • Mid-term exam on textbook Part I - Introductory Modelling 30%
  • Take-home exam on selected Part II - Intermediate Modelling Topics 20%
  • Modeling term project (choice from a range of systems) 20%

NOTES:

Computer lab Projects
Computer labs are intended to provide opportunity for hands-on practice in quantitative analysis, numerical methods, and simulation. Lab projects are generally structured around completed simulation programs that students use to answer modelling questions. Students are expected to review the assignment prior to class and prepare anything necessary to complete the assignment in the allotted time (approx. 1hrs).

Class Discussion
Methods of numerical analysis and simulation will be new to some students, while some particular methods and concepts will be familiar, or even well known, to others. This provides an opportunity for students to help each other in both classroom and lab sessions. In addition, raising questions/comments adds variety to classroom sessions, providing alternative paths to understanding the material. Therefore, all students are expected to contribute to class discussion for the benefit of all.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

ISEE STELLA Software. Software installed in SFU computer labs, term license available for purchase for off campus use.

REQUIRED READING:

Ford, A. 2009. Modelling the Environment, 2nd Edition. Island Press, WA.
Available in SFU Bookstore and online.
ISBN: 9781597264730

RECOMMENDED READING:

Supplemental reading assigned as needed.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS