Some Basic Concepts in System Dynamics - Creative Learning ...

D-4894 - 5 -Some Basic Concepts in System DynamicsbyJay W. ForresterIn its full development, system dynamics is a discipline with the scope ofscience, education, law, engineering, or medicine. On the other hand, it isbecoming clear that teachers in ordinary K-12 schools can make enough progressin two or three years to achieve major improvement in students’ thinking, selfreliance, and enthusiasm for learning.1. THE NATURE OF SYSTEMSMany principles form the foundation of system dynamics and become a basisfor thinking in all endeavors.1.1. Feedback LoopsHere we touch on the natureof feedback loops. People seldomrealize the pervasive existence offeedback loops in controllingeverything that changes throughtime. Most people think in linear,nonfeedback terms. For example,in Figure 1, people see a problem,Figure 1decide on an action, expect aresult, and believe that is the endof the issue. Figure 1 illustratesthe framework within which mostdiscussions are debated in thepress, business, and government.Copyright © 2009by Jay W. ForresterPermission granted to reproduceFor noncommercial and educational purposes