The Shape of Change : Introducing Teachers and Students to the Basics of System Dynamics

Abstract

System dynamics has a great deal to offer to K-12 education – much more than building computer models. With the system dynamics approach, students are actively engaged in problem solving, working together in teams, discovering similar patterns of behavior across disciplines, and asking much better questions, all in the process of building and using computer models. But, because this approach departs significantly from traditional teachercentered methods, and because there is a lot to learn at once, it is often difficult for willing teachers to adopt. Also, for many beginners the technical language, the math, and the computer focus of system dynamics can be early obstacles. In Carlisle, Massachusetts, two Waters Foundation systems mentors have faced this challenge while helping their colleagues use system dynamics in their classrooms. They have developed a series of lessons based on games and other hands-on classroom activities for students in Grades 3-8. Students and teachers learn about patterns of behavior, basic stocks and lows, simple feedback processes, discovery learning, and teamwork. The teachers hope that these lessons will draw a larger audience of teachers to system dynamics, and that some of those teachers will use this foundation to take the next step toward computer modeling. The poster session will present several of these lessons.