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Teaching the Modeling of Human–Environment Systems : Acknowledging Complexity with an Agent-Based Model

DOI zum Zitieren der Version auf EPub Bayreuth: https://doi.org/10.15495/EPub_UBT_00007478
URN to cite this document: urn:nbn:de:bvb:703-epub-7478-1

Title data

Haensel, Maria ; Schmitt, Thomas Michael ; Bogenreuther, Jakob:
Teaching the Modeling of Human–Environment Systems : Acknowledging Complexity with an Agent-Based Model.
In: Journal of Science Education and Technology. Vol. 32 (2023) . - pp. 256-266.
ISSN 1573-1839
DOI der Verlagsversion: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10956-022-10022-z

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Abstract

Agent-based modeling is a promising tool for familiarizing students with complex systems as well as programming skills. Human–environment systems, for instance, entail complex interdependencies that need to be considered when modeling these systems. This complexity is often neglected in teaching modeling approaches. For a heterogeneous group of master’s students at a German university, we pre-built an agent-based model. In class, this was used to teach modeling impacts of land use policies and markets on ecosystem services. As part of the course, the students had to perform small research projects with the model in groups of two. This study aims to evaluate how well students could deal with the complexity involved in the model based on their group work outcomes. Chosen indicators were, e.g., the appropriateness of their research goals, the suitability of the methods applied, and how well they acknowledged the limitations. Our study results revealed that teaching complex systems does not need to be done with too simplistic models. Most students, even with little background in modeling and programming, were able to deal with the complex model setup, conduct small research projects, and have a thoughtful discussion on the limitations involved. With adequate theoretical input during lectures, we recommend using models that do not hide the complexity of the systems but foster a realistic simplification of the interactions.

Further data

Item Type: Article in a journal
Keywords: Higher education; University teaching; Blended learning; Individual-based models; Wicked problems; Socio-ecological systems
DDC Subjects: 500 Science > 550 Earth sciences, geology
Institutions of the University: Faculties > Faculty of Biology, Chemistry and Earth Sciences > Department of Earth Sciences > Professor Ecological Services > Professor Ecological Services - Univ.-Prof. Dr. Thomas Köllner
Profile Fields > Advanced Fields > Ecology and the Environmental Sciences
Research Institutions > Central research institutes > Bayreuth Center of Ecology and Environmental Research- BayCEER
Faculties
Faculties > Faculty of Biology, Chemistry and Earth Sciences
Faculties > Faculty of Biology, Chemistry and Earth Sciences > Department of Earth Sciences
Faculties > Faculty of Biology, Chemistry and Earth Sciences > Department of Earth Sciences > Professor Ecological Services
Profile Fields
Profile Fields > Advanced Fields
Research Institutions
Research Institutions > Central research institutes
Language: English
Originates at UBT: Yes
URN: urn:nbn:de:bvb:703-epub-7478-1
Date Deposited: 20 Feb 2024 08:58
Last Modified: 20 Feb 2024 08:59
URI: https://epub.uni-bayreuth.de/id/eprint/7478

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