Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - REM 221 D100

Systems Thinking and the Environment (3)

Class Number: 1434

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 12, 2019
    Thu, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of REM 100, or GEOG 100 or 111, or EVSC 100.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces systems thinking in the context of environmental and sustainability challenges using system archetypes and system dynamics theory. Analytical and modeling techniques are applied to understand and project systems complexity. Students with credit for ENV 221 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will introduce students to systems thinking and will provide an overview of different analytical and modeling techniques used to understand and project systems complexity.  The course will use environment and sustainability challenges as examples to illustrate system archetypes and dynamics. The knowledge and skills gained will be applicable to many disciplines.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After completing REM 221, students will be able to:

  • Define a system, types of systems, and be able to use of systems thinking terminology
  • Explain at least 5 system archetypes
  • Use math to describe simple linear and non-linear dynamics of systems
  • Describe how limits can affect functioning of systems
  • Explain resilience, self organization, emergent properties in terms of system function
  • Explain the opportunities and dangers inherent in decision making using a systems lens including consideration of unintended consequences, trade-offs, tipping points and sensitivity
  • Explain the types of analytical tool/methods used to understand systems
  • Demonstrate the ability to use a simple model to project system function

Grading

  • Class Assignments 20%
  • Term Project 25%
  • Mid Term Exam 25%
  • Lab Assignments 20%
  • Weekly Quizzes 10%

NOTES:

Assignments are due before the start of class on the due date and lab assignments are due before your next lab.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Meadows, Donella .2008. Thinking in Systems - A Primer. Chelsea Green Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-84407-726-7

RECOMMENDED READING:

On canvas.sfu.ca, under Lecture Pages

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/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