Current Training Available

Keynote Presentation and Workshops: Building Models to Enhance Understanding of Core Concepts in Algebra and Biology

Conference: Strength in Numbers: The Power of Mathematics, A Conference for Math and Science Teachers

Sponsored by: Everett Community College, Everett, Washington, contact Pamela Pape-Lindstrom, Biology Professor

Date: June 29 - 30, 2011; Keynote: 7:00 - 8:30 pm on June 29, , two short 1.5 hour workshops, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon, June 30.

Location: Everett Community College, Everett, Washington

Description: Using models of feedback dynamics reinforces the core functional behavior of exponential, logistic, and sinusoidal behavior studied in second year algebra, pre-calculus and calculus classes. Combining the basic modeling structures provides access to the study of drug pharmacokinetics, predator/prey interactions, renewable and non-renewable resource systems. It is an exciting way to reinforce concepts in math, biology, environmental science and many more disciplines. It also helps broaden the access of these topics for many students.

Workshop: Camp Snowball: SystemsThinking*Sustainability: Building Our Capacity to Shape the Future

Date: July 22 - 23, 2011: Introduction to Computer Modeling/Simulation; 8:00 am - 4:00 pm each day; July 24 - 25, 2011: Intermediate Computer Modeling/Simulation; 8:00 am - 4:00 pm each day. (Full conference is held from July 21 - July 25)

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Registration: www.campsnowball.org OR email info@campsnowball.org OR call LeAnne at +1-617-532-0906; cost $1600 for 5-day conference

Description: An introduction to the creation of simple models containing feedback dynamics. Models that have been used in classrooms from grades 5 through 12 will be developed. The workshops are both introductory and intermediate level. These models reinforce core concepts in math, science, economics, health, and social science.

Past Training

Workshop: Better Sustainability Decision-Making: Modeling Dynamic Feedback Systems

Sponsored by: Willamette University Executive Development Center, Portland, Oregon, contact Anne Murray Allan, Director

Date: May 19 - 20, 2011; 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, June 3, 2011 1:00 - 5:00 pm

Location: Executive Development Center, 1120 NW Couch Street Suite 450, Portland, Oregon

Registration: edc@willamette.edu, or Judy Hampe, 503-370-6791, admission cost $1100

Description: An intensive two-day, hands-on experience building simulations to strengthen a systems thinking approach applied to analyzing complex systemic problems. The models will then be used to identify and test leverage points in the system in support of making better decisions. (1 credit)

Workshop: Modeling Dynamic Feedback Systems: Putting Systems Thinking to the Test,

Sponsored by: OSR at Seattle University, Seattle, WA, Date: January 28 - 29, 2011; 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Location: Chardin Hall, Room 142, Seattle University, Registration: www.osr-nw.org, admission cost $335. An intensive two-day, hands-on experience building simulations to strengthen the systems thinking approach applied to analyzing systemic problems. Building simulations provides the learner with a method for identifying leverage points and testing policies recommended to mitigate a problem under study. It also has the potential to unveil unintended consequences of interventions.

“The deepest systemic insights are gained by either building or using
computer simulations to test assumptions.” (Jay Forrester)

Participants in this workshop will build and test small models containing feedback. It is a hands-on introduction to modeling dynamic systems. Participants should bring a laptop.

Portland State University

Jul 19 to Aug 12, 2010, MTWR, 8:30–10:20 am
3 credits, Neuberger Hall, Room 461

Math 488/588 — Topics in Technology for Mathematics Teachers

This course will focus on the use of technology to create and analyze simulations that represent different rates of change and accumulations. Examples used in class will come from environmental science, biology, health, physics, economics, and the social sciences. The focus is on the teaching and learning of mathematical concepts. It will be a hands-on course. Although primarily intended for teachers at the high school level, some models could be used at the middle school.

Additional training times currently available starting August 16, 2010 through the fall of 2010.

Future Possible Training Formats

Two-hour Presentation — “Exposure to the Use of Simulation Models in Teaching High School Math and Science” available free in the Portland, Oregon Metro area for the 2010–2011 school year.

1.5 Day Training — Introduction to System Dynamics Modeling, 1 credit
(Potential Schedule: 7 hours on a Friday, and 3 hours on a Saturday)

This would be a hands-on computer course. Teachers will learn to build small models using generic structures that could apply to multiple disciplines. Simple feedback mechanisms will be introduced. Lessons are provided for immediate use in the high school math and/or science classroom.

30 Hours of Level I Training — System Dynamics Modeling I, 3 credits
(Potential Schedule: 3 hours on Saturday morning for 10 weeks)

The course would be similar in nature to the summer course at PSU, described above, although the focus would not need be primarily on teaching mathematical concepts). This would be a hands-on computer course. Teachers will progress beyond generic structure models and analyze simple feedback in the models they create. Models will apply to multiple disciplines. Appropriate for math (algebra, pre-calculus, calculus), science (especially environmental science, physics, biology), health, economics, and social science teachers.

30 Hours of Level II Training — System Dynamics Modeling II, 3 credits
(Potential Schedule: 3 hours on Saturday morning for 10 weeks)
Prerequisite: Level I Training

The Level II course would take the teacher/student further into modeling dynamic systems. This would be a hands-on computer course. Students will learn to build dynamic parameter structures and use information and material delays in their models. Feedback analysis will become more extensive. Students will build more original models from their area of interest.

Although the Level I and Level II training is intended for teachers, it would be appropriate for business persons who would like to learn this type of modeling to help them analyze the dynamics of problem behavior in their business. Especially in the Level II training, where more original problems are open for study, students outside the school environment would find the curriculum more flexible and appropriate for their area of interest