COURSE SYLLABUS FORMAT
This course covers the basic concepts in system theory: stock and flow, positive and negative feedback. It also discusses logistic growth with carrying capacity, oscillation in linear systems, limit cycle and chaos in nonlinear systems. After learning the simulation software, systems in six different areas will be discussed: physical systems, engineering systems, chemical/biological systems, ecological systems, economic systems and social systems. Students are required to investigate one out of these six areas listed above by constructing asystem model and simulation, and then write a project report and give a presentation. In addition, students also need to write three essays on three of the remaining areas.