Developing understanding: Models 5-6 [Systems thinking & modelling series]
This is part 11 of a series of articles featuring the book Beyond Connecting the Dots, Modeling for Meaningful Results.
Rabbit Population
Remember the previous comment about seldom developing a model in the form it needs to be on the first try? Investigation of a simple “Rabbit Population” model should be most informative.
This model reflects the notion that more rabbits create even more rabbits.
Need help? See the Model instructions
As demonstrated in the unfolding of this model, you should approach the development of a model as a learning experience. When things go wrong it’s an opportunity for learning. You learn from the model and the model learns from you. Once the two of you learn enough it’s probably a meaningful model.
Savings Account
Why should you put money in a savings account? Why does the bank want you to put money in a savings account? Building and working with a model for a bank “Savings Account” can also be very informative.
How does a savings account really work?
Need help? See the Model instructions
All of the pieces of the model are relevant and have an impact on the behavior of the model. As indicated, a model tells a story; a story for which only pieces of can be found in the model. The model itself is more than just the sum of its parts.
Next edition: Developing understanding: Model 7.
Article sources: Beyond Connecting the Dots, Insight Maker. Reproduced by permission.
Header image source: Beyond Connecting the Dots.
