The course uses computer simulation as an experimental platform to study and analyze the dynamics of socio-economic problems. The course has two broad objectives: The first one is to learn dynamic systems approach and systems simulation as a methodology to study and understand complex, dynamic socio-economic problems. Students will learn the concepts of stocks and flows, negative and positive feedback loops, structure and causal-loop diagrams and various typical behavior patterns. The second objective of the course is to expose the students to a variety of real socio-economic case studies and demonstrate how systems approach and simulation can be used to tackle such problems. A systems simulation software will be heavily utilized through the course.

Offered by: Yaman Barlas (Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2006, Fall 2005, Fall 2004, Fall 2003, Fall 2002, Fall 2001, Fall 1999), Ali Kerem Saysel (Fall 2007), Hakan Yaşarcan (Fall 2010, Spring 2010)

Systems concepts; basic quantitative techniques used in systems approach; use of computers in modelling, industrial dynamics, econometric modelling; case studies on selected large scale systems.

Offered by: Gönenç Yücel (Spring 2014), Yaman Barlas (Spring 2007, Spring 2006, Spring 2005, Spring 2004, Spring 2003, Spring 2002, Spring 2001, Spring 1999)

This is a course on the philosophy, science and tools of systems theory, emphasizing various mathematical and quasi-mathematical techniques used in dynamic modeling and analysis of complex systems. Examples from socio-economic, managerial and other living systems are modeled and discussed. Low order and linear systems are initially used to introduce the main concepts, but special emphasis is eventually placed on realistic, non-linear, time-delayed complex models. Student projects and other assignments play a major role in the course. Simulation software will be used in analysis of large-scale models.

Offered by: Hakan Yaşarcan (Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012), Yaman Barlas (Spring 2011, Spring 2009, Spring 2008)

This is a somewhat custom-designed course on selected advanced topics in system dynamics method. The course consists of two parts: i- advanced topics in model building, validation, sensitivity and policy analysis, and ii- some mathematical and quasi-mathematical techniques used in the analysis of dynamic systems, including complex nonlinear dynamics. Student projects, presentations and other assignments play a major role in the course.

Offered by: Yaman Barlas (Spring 2010)

This course is a basic introduction to systems science and systems engineering. The fundamental concepts, philosophy and historical development of systems science are reviewed. Analogical dynamic systems are first illustrated on electrical, hydraulic and mechanical examples. The generality of systems analogy is then demonstrated on industrial, socio-economic and managerial modeling examples. Analysis tools for linear dynamic systems are reviewed. Non-linear structures and mathematical solution difficulties are discussed. Equilibrium and stability analysis is presented. Simulation method and software are introduced to analyze large scale, time-delayed, non-linear dynamic systems. Stock-flow modeling and formulation principles are discussed to analyze socio-technical problems.

Dersi veren: Yaman Barlas (Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012)

The objective is to teach the problems, principles and practice of decision experimentation as a simulation based method to analyze the factors affecting human performance in dynamic decision making (DDM) environments. Concepts of dynamic complexity and influence factors in DDM studies are covered. Tools for systems thinking and simulation, causal loop diagramming, stocks, flows and their dynamics are introduced. Students learn how to develop single and multiuser (network) games of dynamic simulation models. They also learn to identify appropriate game characteristics (task structures), create experimental design, run controlled experiments and analyze and interpret experimental results. Throughout the course, in the computer lab, students become participants of several experiments with simulation games related to the topics of climate change, renewable resource management, environmental pollution, wildlife management, and alike. Applications focus on environmental problems but potentially comprise many other topics related to business management and economics. Students are expected to develop skills in systems thinking, simulation, gaming and decision experimentation.

Offered by: Ali Kerem Saysel (Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009, Fall 2008, Fall 2006, Fall 2005)

Offered by: Gönenç Yücel (Fall 2012)

Offered by: Hakan Yaşarcan (Fall 2009)

The purpose is to introduce the basics of dynamic modeling and environmental systems with a focus on learning and management of dynamically complex environmental and resource problems. This course is legible for all students with natural sciences, engineering and social sciences backgrounds interested in managing environmental systems, systems inquiry and computer simulations.

Offered by: Ali Kerem Saysel (Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009, Fall 2008, Fall 2007, Fall 2006)

This is a series of seminars on applications of "System Dynamics Method" on various problems related to the "Sustainable Development" concept. In technical and operational terms it is about "inter-generational transfer of natural and manufactured capital stocks that would be adequate and no less than the one that exists now in terms of quantity and quality". The dynamic, long-term problem orientation of the System Dynamics, and closed-loop thinking and stock-flow concepts in model conceptualization promises to be useful in the analysis of social and environmental sustainability issues.

Offered by: Ali Kerem Saysel (Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010, Spring 2007, Spring 2006)