Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - REM 221 D100

Systems Thinking and the Environment (3)

Class Number: 4208

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of REM 100, GEOG 100, GEOG 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. Emphasis is placed on using systems thinking concepts to finding solutions in a complex world. Students with credit for ENV 221 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces you to systems thinking and explores how it can be applied to complex challenges encountered throughout your career. You will learn techniques to understand, analyse, and explore how complex systems behave, including how feedback, delays, and interactions shape system outcomes. We will use examples from environmental and sustainability issues to illustrate these concepts and examine common patterns found in complex systems. The skills developed in this course can be applied across many fields, helping you identify systemic issues and develop more effective solutions.

The course is interactive and includes hands-on exercises that allow you to practice systems thinking approaches. You will work individually and in groups to analyse real-world challenges using the methods and tools discussed in class. These activities will help you develop analytical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Regular quizzes based on lectures and readings will support your learning and provide opportunities to assess your understanding throughout the term. A final project will challenge you to apply systems thinking tools to a complex problem, analyse the underlying system structure, propose strategies for improvement, and communicate your findings through a final presentation.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After completing REM 221, you will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamental principles, terminology, and archetypes of systems thinking.
  • Analyse the behaviour and dynamics of complex systems.
  • Apply systems thinking tools and models to real-world challenges.
  • Evaluate decisions using a systems perspective, considering feedback, trade-offs, limits, and unintended consequences.
  • Collaborate to develop and communicate systems-based solutions to sustainability challenges.

Grading

  • Assignments / Applied Activities (tutorial and in-class) 50%
  • Quizzes 20%
  • Final exam/project (TBD) 30%

NOTES:

Course outline including grade distribution is subject to change. Final course syllabus will be distributed by instructor in the first week of class.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Lectures and course activities will be delivered in person. Many class sessions include interactive, hands-on exercises and group activities. Students are encouraged to bring a laptop computer to class to participate in these activities. While some tablets may be suitable, a laptop is strongly recommended to ensure full functionality and ease of use. Mobile phones are not recommended because their smaller screens make it difficult to use the applications effectively.

Several in-class activities will use Shiny web applications to explore systems thinking concepts, analyse models, and visualise system behaviour. These applications run directly in a web browser, so you do not need to install Python, R, RStudio or any other software. No prior knowledge of Python or R programming language is required.

Course materials, including lecture slides, readings, activity instructions, and other course resources, will be available through Canvas.

REQUIRED READING:

Donella Meadows. (2008) Thinking in Systems - A primer

  • This textbook is available through the SFU bookstore
  • The book is available online through SFU library

ISBN: 978-1603580557

RECOMMENDED READING:

On Canvas as needed by week.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.