After successful completion of the course, students are able to
a) to use qualitative SD methods to analyse and communicate complex systems in the transport context,
b) to develop and validate quantitative SD models in the transport context,
c) to use SD software (Vensim, InsightMaker),
d) to critically discuss and summarise simulation results,
e) to simulate and assess external scenarios and policy scenarios using SD models and
f) have basic knowledge about the integration of SD models into hybrid simulation environments.

System Dynamics (SD) models can be used to identify leverage points to control and manage complex transport systems. The use of SD models as a tool in strategic planning and decision making is on the rise. Examples are the assessment of the policies of the Austrian Climate Strategy, the assessment of societal effects of automated driving or the assessment of European transport strategies. A focus of operational SD models is the interaction between land use and transport (LUTI – Land Use and Transport Interaction Models). Knowledge about SD in general and operational models in particular enriches the toolbox of students as future transport or landscape planners.

The objective of the course is to enable students to develop and use their own SD models in the context of today’s challenges in transport planning and policy. The lectures start with a brief introduction into system thinking and qualitative SD methods. The focus of the course is the introduction into quantitative SD methods (Stock-Flow-modelling) and validation methods. An overview of existing transport related operational SD model will be given. Interactive elements, e.g. the Fishbanks simulation or Group Model Building, introduce the students into the principle challenges of controlling complex dynamic systems. Students will develop their own quantitative SD model for a specific task in transport planning in form of a group work. Tutorials and computer workshops will support this process. Finally, a report about the process of model building, the resulting model and a critical discussion of simulation results has to be written.

Attendance of course 230.053 "System analysis, strategic planning and policy modelling with system dynamics" or equal knowledge in system analysis and modelling, basic knowledge in transport planning, are strongly recommended. The course will be held in English and in cooperation with Institute for Transport Studies of BOKU. The lectures are planned to be held in presence at BOKU university.

Lecture with integrated exercises
 
The course is based on a mix of presentations, interactive elements (Group Model Building Exercises), hands on group work and student presentations

Grading will be based on students active participation in the lectures and interactive elements, the final report of their homework work and the presentation and discussion of their home work.

* Pfaffenbichler (2011) Modelling with Systems Dynamics as a Method to Bridge the Gap between Politics, Planning and Science? Lessons Learnt from the Development of the Land Use and Transport Model MARS, Transport Reviews 31(2):267-289
* Arndt, H. (2017) Systemisches Denken im Fachunterricht. Edited by H. Arndt. Erlangen, DE: FAU University Press. Available at: https://opus4.kobv.de/opus4-fau/files/8609/HolgerArndt_Systemisches+Denken+Bd.2_OPUS.pdf.
* Sterman, J. D. (2000) Business Dynamics - Systems Thinking and Modeling for a Complex World. McGraw-Hill Higher Education.