Computing
Making Sense of Complexity: Tools for Addressing Real World Sustainability Challenges
Module code: G6103
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework
On this module, you’ll explore systems thinking – a powerful approach to tackling complex, real-world challenges across sectors.
You’ll work on a live sustainability issue identified by a local organisation. Through this, you’ll:
- learn how social and ecological systems interact
- learn to apply qualitative and quantitative methods to understand and address the challenge
- work collaboratively to design strategies that meet diverse needs, enhance possibilities and avoid unintended harm.
You’ll gain hands-on experience of systems tools used by government, charities and public sector organisations. There is also participatory workshops, data integration and case studies from Βι¶ΉΣ³» researchers.
You’ll explore how data and modelling can support – but not replace – human insight and stakeholder engagement to solve difficult societal problems.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate understanding of core concepts in complex systems thinking.
- Engage constructively with diverse perspectives on real world sustainability problems.
- Apply systems thinking approaches to evaluate real world complex problems and potential responses to them.
- Reflect critically on the application of systems thinking.