System Dynamics Modeling for Strategic Design

3 units

This class focuses on the application of model-based systems thinking and system dynamics simulation modeling for strategy development in social work, public health, and social policy for the design of programs, interventions, and organizations. The course supports students to apply mathematical simulation modeling as a pragmatic tool for the design of program and policy interventions as well as organizational strategies. The course covers the foundations of the systems thinking perspective; problem scoping and definition; model structure formulation, the role of mixed methods to build confidence in models, and model-based analysis to inform design options. Application areas include organization and community practice, with examples from domestic and international settings. The course draws on methods being developed and used by the Brown School's Social System Design Lab and explores current CBSD applications in both domestic and international settings.