University of Technology Sydney

42827 Introduction to Participatory Modelling

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Subject handbook information prior to 2024 is available in the Archives.

UTS: Information Technology: Computer Science
Credit points: 3 cp
Result type: Grade and marks

Anti-requisite(s): 42085 Modelling for Complex Systems

Description

Participatory modelling (PM) is a powerful tool which takes the most from collective knowledge of the stakeholders and interactive simulation modelling techniques aiming at finding better solutions for the complex problems. Learning is a crucial component of participatory modelling because as the stakeholders exchange their perspectives, they learn from each other, which leads to the development of shared, more holistic understanding of the problem and, consequently, to more feasible solutions. In this subject students learn the techniques of Participatory Modelling (PM). They learn how to engage with stakeholders, and how to avoid or overcome any pitfalls when using the techniques of PM.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Identify and engage stakeholders in problem analysis and construction of conceptual models.(B.1)
2. Design and customise the PM process. (C.1)

Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)

This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):

  • Socially Responsible: FEIT graduates identify, engage, and influence stakeholders, and apply expert judgment establishing and managing constraints, conflicts and uncertainties within a hazards and risk framework to define system requirements and interactivity. (B.1)
  • Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design thinking and decision-making methodologies in new contexts or to novel problems, to explore, test, analyse and synthesise complex ideas, theories or concepts. (C.1)

Teaching and learning strategies

This subject uses supported online learning strategies. Self-paced online learning material, including appropriate readings and videos, introduce concepts of Participatory Modelling (PM).

Case studies help develop and reinforce the concepts and techniques of PM. Students will customise the PM process to suit particular contexts and problems. Opportunities will be taken to engage in role playing that will reinforce the concepts of PM.

Weekly asynchronous online consultations at times nominated on the LMS used (e.g. Canvas) and moderated discussion boards enable clarification of issues and peer/expert support for learning. Feedback on assessments, both automated and human, will also be available through the LMS.

Content (topics)

This subject will deal with the following topics:

  • Complex problems of today’s world
  • PM as a tool to help solve complex problems of society
  • The PM process: how to organise
  • Stakeholder involvement
  • Conceptual model development
  • Role of the facilitator
  • Quantitative model development
  • Data acquisition and stakeholder model validation
  • Scenario testing and results dissemination
  • Challenges of PM

Assessment

Assessment task 1: PM Report 1

Objective(s):

This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):

B.1

Type: Report
Groupwork: Individual
Weight: 30%
Length:

Maximum 800 words

Assessment task 2: The PM Process

Objective(s):

This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs):

1 and 2

This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):

B.1 and C.1

Type: Report
Groupwork: Individual
Weight: 70%
Length:

2,500 words