Systems thinking, Scenarios & Indicators for SD (2026/2027: Periode 2)

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Cursusdoel

Please note: the information in the course manual is binding.
In this course, we expose the students to a portfolio of modelling techniques and indicators that are used to get a more in-depth understanding of the scientific underpinnings of achieving sustainable development across a wide range of themes.

After completion of this course, the student is able to:
  • Appraise and explain how the theories and concepts taught in the course Perspectives on Sustainable Development (PSD) (GEO4-2301) relate to sustainable development indicators, models, and the development of projections and scenarios;
  • Interpretate systems in the field of sustainability research and develop causal loop diagrams and stock-flow diagrams to describe effects and feedbacks in the systems;
  • Use the programming language Python and the Microsoft Excel software to analyse and develop mathematical and agent based models in the context of sustainability research;
  • Summarize the interrelationship between models, scenarios and indicators, specifically those that relate to interactions and dynamics of social-ecological systems;
  • Develop and critically evaluate sustainable development indicators and scenarios in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Vakinhoudelijk

The course is organized around four hands-on assignments and one exam. We will start with the analysis of dynamic systems and introduce the concepts behind this methodological approach through the use of mathematical models in the Python programming language. After that, students will use Python to learn about agent-based modelling, which involves understanding how individual behavioural choices can affect collective outcomes. Then we will use Microsoft Excel to develop scenarios to assess how we can sustainably feed a growing population. The exam will cover the theoretical concepts discussed during the lectures, guest-lectures, assigned readings and assignments. Throughout the course, students work on a group research project that involves a scientific analysis of a self-selected sustainability issue via different sustainable development indicators, such as: Environmental Performance Index, Human Development Index, Ecological Footprint, Happy Planet Index, etc. The results of the research assignment are presented (orally and in writing) in the last week of the course.

The course is a sequel to the course SUSD-Perspectives on Sustainable Development (GEO4-2301) and its content is assumed to be known.

This course is an entry requirement for: Master's Thesis SD (GEO4-2321).

Werkvormen

Computer labs
Toelichting

Computer labs, four assignments in small groups, exam

Voorbereiding

In order to successfully participate in class, assigned literature should be read before lectures and tutorials.

Lectures/Guest lectures

Tutorials

Toetsing

Eindresultaat

Verplicht | Weging 1% | ECTS 7,5

Two group assignments (including presentation) and one exam. The course mode of evaluation is as follows: Exam: 40% SDG research assignment: 30% Scenario assignment: 30%

Ingangseisen en voorkennis

Ingangseisen

Je moet inschreven staan voor de volgende opleiding:

  • Sustainable Development

Voorkennis

Perspectives on Sustainable Development (GEO4-2301) or Sustainable Water Resources Management (GEO4-6008).

Voertalen

  • Engels

Cursusmomenten

Gerelateerde studies

Tentamens

Er is geen tentamenrooster beschikbaar voor deze cursus

Verplicht materiaal

  • LITERATUUR
    De Vries, B.J.M., 2012, Sustainability Science, Cambridge University Press
  • LITERATUUR
    Scientific articles (available on Blackboard)

Aanbevolen materiaal

Er is geen informatie over de aanbevolen literatuur bekend

Coördinator

dr. L.E. Ramirez Camargo l.e.ramirezcamargo@uu.nl

Docenten

Docenten onderwijsinstituut SD -

Inschrijving

Let op: deze cursus is niet toegankelijk voor studenten van andere faculteiten, bijvakkers mogen zich dus niet inschrijven.

Inschrijving
Van maandag 14 september 2026 tot en met vrijdag 25 september 2026

Na-inschrijving
Van maandag 19 oktober 2026 tot en met dinsdag 20 oktober 2026

Inschrijving niet geopend
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