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Danilo Oliveira Vaz
In this 1-hour long project-based course, you will create a model that simulates the interrelated dynamics of three different species populations within an environment: plants, deer, and wolves
By doing so, you’ll be introduced to Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that supports both System Dynamics modeling and Agent Based modeling. This will equip you with everything you need to know in order to build tailor-made models and simulations.
Read more
In this 1-hour long project-based course, you will create a model that simulates the interrelated dynamics of three different species populations within an environment: plants, deer, and wolves
By doing so, you’ll be introduced to Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that supports both System Dynamics modeling and Agent Based modeling. This will equip you with everything you need to know in order to build tailor-made models and simulations.
Read more
In this 1-hour long project-based course, you will create a model that simulates the interrelated dynamics of three different species populations within an environment: plants, deer, and wolves
By doing so, you’ll be introduced to Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that supports both System Dynamics modeling and Agent Based modeling. This will equip you with everything you need to know in order to build tailor-made models and simulations.
Note: This course works best for learners who are based in the North America region. We’re currently working on providing the same experience in other regions.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/3hshuo/building
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What's inside
Syllabus
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops core competency in advanced System Dynamics modeling and simulation, which is standard in industry and academia
Uses Insight Maker, an industry-standard modeling platform for System Dynamics modeling with a free web-based simulation environment
Teaches students the fundamentals of System Dynamics modeling and simulation
Perfect for individuals with a background in modeling and simulation seeking to enhance their skills
May require students to have a basic understanding of system dynamics and simulation concepts
Not suitable for beginners with no prior knowledge of system dynamics modeling and simulation
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Reviews summary
Insight maker ecosystem modeling intro
According to learners, this course is a fantastic introduction to Insight Maker and system dynamics modeling. Students consistently praise its hands-on, project-based approach, finding the ecosystem model engaging and well-structured. Many highlight the instructor's clear explanations and appropriate pacing, making it easy to grasp core concepts. While effective for beginners and a quick skill add, some more experienced learners found the content too simplistic or too basic, indicating it's an entry-level course rather than a deep dive.
The instructor's explanations are clear and easy to follow.
"The instructor explains concepts clearly, and the project is a good way to apply what you learn."
"The step-by-step guidance was perfect, and Insight Maker seems like a powerful tool."
"The instructor's pace was just right, and everything was explained clearly."
The project-based learning effectively applies theoretical concepts.
"The ecosystem model project was engaging and well-structured, making it easy to grasp the core concepts."
"The project itself is a good way to apply what you learn."
"Loved the project-based learning. It's truly an hour well spent if you want to quickly get familiar with Insight Maker."
Serves as an ideal first step for learning Insight Maker and system dynamics.
"This course was a fantastic introduction to Insight Maker."
"Absolutely brilliant! I've been looking for an accessible way to get into system dynamics, and this course delivered."
"As a total beginner to simulation, this was a gentle entry point. I liked how the project walked me through the software."
Content is introductory, potentially too simple for advanced users.
"My only wish is for more advanced topics or challenges, but for an hour-long course, it's very effective."
"It's okay as a very basic intro. The project itself felt a bit too simplified..."
"Too simplistic. I already have some background in systems thinking and found this to be a waste of time. Not for intermediate or advanced users."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Building an Ecosystem model with Insight Maker with these
activities:
Review ecosystem modeling concepts
Show steps
Ecosystem modeling is a core concept in this course. Reviewing these concepts will help you understand the material more easily.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
-
Read the textbook chapter on ecosystem modeling.
-
Watch a video lecture on ecosystem modeling.
-
Take a practice quiz on ecosystem modeling concepts.
-
Complete a homework assignment on ecosystem modeling.
Complete Insight Maker tutorials
Show steps
Insight Maker is the software we will be using in this course. Completing these tutorials will help you become familiar with the software and its capabilities.
Browse courses on
Insight Maker
Show steps
-
Go through the Insight Maker user guide.
-
Watch the Insight Maker video tutorials.
-
Complete the Insight Maker practice exercises.
Read the book 'System Dynamics Modeling: A Practical Approach'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of system dynamics modeling. Reading it will help you develop a deeper understanding of the concepts and techniques used in this field.
View
Modeling for Learning Organizations (System...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
-
Read the book's remaining chapters one at a time.
-
Complete the exercises and assignments at the end of each chapter.
-
Attend the book's online discussion forum.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group or discussion forum on ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Joining a study group or discussion forum on ecosystem modeling will help you connect with other students and learn from their perspectives.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
-
Find a study group or discussion forum on ecosystem modeling.
-
Introduce yourself to the group and share your interests.
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
-
Help other students with their questions.
Practice building ecosystem models in Insight Maker
Show steps
Building ecosystem models in Insight Maker is a key skill for this course. Practicing this skill will help you build better models for your projects.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
-
Create a simple ecosystem model in Insight Maker.
-
Add complexity to your model by adding more species or interactions.
-
Calibrate your model using real-world data.
-
Use your model to make predictions about the future.
Attend a workshop on ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Attending a workshop on ecosystem modeling will help you learn new techniques and strategies. It will also help you connect with other experts in the field.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
-
Find a workshop on ecosystem modeling that is relevant to your interests.
-
Register for the workshop.
-
Attend the workshop and participate in the activities.
-
Follow up with the workshop organizers or speakers after the workshop.
Mentor a younger student in ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Mentoring a younger student in ecosystem modeling will help you solidify your understanding of the topic. It will also help you develop your leadership and communication skills.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
-
Find a younger student who is interested in ecosystem modeling.
-
Set up a regular meeting time to work with the student.
-
Help the student with their homework assignments and projects.
-
Answer the student's questions and provide them with support.
Create a blog post or article on ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Creating a blog post or article on ecosystem modeling will help you solidify your understanding of the topic. It will also help you develop your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
-
Choose a topic for your blog post or article.
-
Research your topic and gather information.
-
Write your blog post or article.
-
Publish your blog post or article.
Review ecosystem modeling concepts
Show steps
Ecosystem modeling is a core concept in this course. Reviewing these concepts will help you understand the material more easily.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the textbook chapter on ecosystem modeling.
- Watch a video lecture on ecosystem modeling.
- Take a practice quiz on ecosystem modeling concepts.
- Complete a homework assignment on ecosystem modeling.
Complete Insight Maker tutorials
Show steps
Insight Maker is the software we will be using in this course. Completing these tutorials will help you become familiar with the software and its capabilities.
Browse courses on
Insight Maker
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go through the Insight Maker user guide.
- Watch the Insight Maker video tutorials.
- Complete the Insight Maker practice exercises.
Read the book 'System Dynamics Modeling: A Practical Approach'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of system dynamics modeling. Reading it will help you develop a deeper understanding of the concepts and techniques used in this field.
View
Modeling for Learning Organizations (System...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
- Read the book's remaining chapters one at a time.
- Complete the exercises and assignments at the end of each chapter.
- Attend the book's online discussion forum.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group or discussion forum on ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Joining a study group or discussion forum on ecosystem modeling will help you connect with other students and learn from their perspectives.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or discussion forum on ecosystem modeling.
- Introduce yourself to the group and share your interests.
- Participate in discussions and ask questions.
- Help other students with their questions.
Practice building ecosystem models in Insight Maker
Show steps
Building ecosystem models in Insight Maker is a key skill for this course. Practicing this skill will help you build better models for your projects.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a simple ecosystem model in Insight Maker.
- Add complexity to your model by adding more species or interactions.
- Calibrate your model using real-world data.
- Use your model to make predictions about the future.
Attend a workshop on ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Attending a workshop on ecosystem modeling will help you learn new techniques and strategies. It will also help you connect with other experts in the field.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop on ecosystem modeling that is relevant to your interests.
- Register for the workshop.
- Attend the workshop and participate in the activities.
- Follow up with the workshop organizers or speakers after the workshop.
Mentor a younger student in ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Mentoring a younger student in ecosystem modeling will help you solidify your understanding of the topic. It will also help you develop your leadership and communication skills.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a younger student who is interested in ecosystem modeling.
- Set up a regular meeting time to work with the student.
- Help the student with their homework assignments and projects.
- Answer the student's questions and provide them with support.
Create a blog post or article on ecosystem modeling
Show steps
Creating a blog post or article on ecosystem modeling will help you solidify your understanding of the topic. It will also help you develop your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic for your blog post or article.
- Research your topic and gather information.
- Write your blog post or article.
- Publish your blog post or article.
Career center
Learners who complete Building an Ecosystem model with Insight Maker will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Environmental Economist
Environmental Economist
Environmental Economists study the economic aspects of environmental issues, such as pollution, climate change, and resource depletion. They use economic principles to analyze the costs and benefits of different environmental policies and to develop strategies for sustainable development. This course may help Environmental Economists build a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex economic and environmental systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Environmental Economists with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of environmental economics.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control and waste management. They use a variety of engineering principles to develop solutions that are both effective and environmentally friendly. This course may help Environmental Engineers build a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex environmental systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Environmental Engineers with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of environmental engineering.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the biology, behavior, and populations of wild animals. They use a variety of methods to collect data on animal populations, including field surveys, remote sensing, and computer modeling. This course may provide Wildlife Biologists with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex animal populations and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Wildlife Biologists with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of wildlife biology.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system, including the atmosphere, oceans, and land surface. They use a variety of methods to collect data on the climate system, including field observations, remote sensing, and computer modeling. This course may provide Climate Scientists with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex climate systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Climate Scientists with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of climate science.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientists conduct research and develop plans to protect and manage natural resources, including plants, animals, and ecosystems. They use a variety of methods to study the dynamics of these systems and develop strategies to conserve them. This course may provide Conservation Scientists with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex environmental systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Conservation Scientists with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of environmental modeling.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts study complex systems, such as businesses, organizations, and computer networks. They use a variety of methods to gather information, including interviews, surveys, and data analysis. This course may provide Systems Analysts with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Systems Analysts with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of systems analysis.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop and implement plans for the development of cities and towns. They use a variety of methods to gather information, including interviews, surveys, and data analysis. This course may provide Urban Planners with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex urban systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Urban Planners with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of urban planning.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve complex problems in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. They use a variety of methods to develop and evaluate solutions, including simulation, optimization, and data analysis. This course may help Operations Research Analysts build a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Operations Research Analysts with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of operations research.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants advise businesses and organizations on sustainability issues. They help companies comply with environmental regulations, reduce their environmental impact, and develop sustainable practices. This course may provide Sustainability Consultants with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, as population dynamics is an important factor in the environment. Sustainability Consultants who take this course will build a strong basis for understanding how complex ecological systems behave, how to model these systems, and how to simulate changes in these systems.
Regional Planner
Regional Planner
Regional Planners develop and implement plans for the development of regions, including cities, counties, and states. They use a variety of methods to gather information, including interviews, surveys, and data analysis. This course may provide Regional Planners with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex regional systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Regional Planners with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of regional planning.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultants advise businesses and organizations on environmental issues. They help companies comply with environmental regulations, reduce their environmental impact, and develop sustainable practices. This course may provide Environmental Consultants with a useful foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, as population dynamics is an important factor in the environment. Environmental Consultants who take this course will build a strong basis for understanding how complex ecological systems behave, how to model these systems, and how to simulate changes in these systems.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research, analyze, and evaluate public policies. They use a variety of methods to gather information, including interviews, surveys, and data analysis. This course may help Policy Analysts build a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex policy issues and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Policy Analysts with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of policy analysis.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers develop and implement plans to make organizations more sustainable. They work with all levels of an organization to identify and reduce environmental impacts, improve social responsibility, and increase economic sustainability. This course may provide Sustainability Managers with a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex environmental and social systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Sustainability Managers with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of sustainability.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from data in various forms, both structured and unstructured. Some Data Scientists specialize in environmental data. This course may help Data Scientists who specialize in environmental data build a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex environmental systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Data Scientists with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of environmental modeling.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law, which includes a variety of topics, such as pollution control, climate change, and natural resource conservation. They use their legal knowledge to help clients comply with environmental regulations and to protect the environment. This course may help Environmental Lawyers build a strong foundation in Systems Dynamics modeling, which is a powerful tool for simulating complex environmental systems and understanding their dynamics. The course will also provide Environmental Lawyers with experience using Insight Maker, a free web-based simulation environment that is widely used in the field of environmental law.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/3hshuo/building
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Building an Ecosystem model with Insight Maker.
Provides a comprehensive overview of agent-based modeling of complex systems. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use these models to study complex systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of system dynamics modeling and simulation techniques. It useful reference for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use these techniques to model complex systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of simulation modeling and analysis techniques. It useful reference for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use these techniques to model complex systems.
Provides a practical guide to developing and using insights in science and engineering. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use insights to solve complex problems.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of ecological systems theory and applications. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use ecological systems theory to understand and manage natural systems.
Provides an overview of systems thinking and its applications to social change. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use systems thinking to address complex problems.
Provides an overview of the dynamics of complex systems. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how complex systems behave and how they can be modeled.
Provides an introduction to system dynamics modeling and simulation for engineering students. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use these techniques to model complex engineering systems.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/3hshuo/building
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