Dynamic Modeling (Modeling Dynamic Systems) Book

An understanding of the changing relationships within systems is an integral part of the study of a variety of disciplines. The second edition of Dynamic Modeling gives a thorough introduction to modeling by teaching the reader both to build and to use a wide range of models, including those for biological, physical, social and economic systems. In conjunction with STELLA software provided with the book, the reader has an easy-to-use tool to visualize all types of dynamic systems. Even more examples of theory and applications from the modeling community have been added to the second edition. For example, the authors have expanded their treatment of population cohort models and then applied it to the dynamics of the U.S. population. They have enriched the discussion of positive feedbacks, enlarged the section on genetics, and provided more applications to the study of diseases. The economics section of the book includes models from game theory and market dynamics that result from the combined effects of inventory changes and producer expectations. The set of engineering models of gravity and acceleration also includes examples of mechanical amplifiers, which are illustrated by the workings of a playground swing. With each model discussed, the book emphasizes the need to learn the concepts and tools of the model for the purpose of generating new insights, streamlining the problem-solving process, and fostering creative thinking and modeling in other areas in inquiry as well. In addition to the new topics, many chapters have been revised and updated to make more extensive use of new model-development features of STELLA. All models and a run-time version of the STELLA software are included with the book on a CD-ROM, which is compatible with both Macintosh and Windows platforms. From a review of first edition: "[The authors] demonstrate convincingly that given the appropriate software, such as the STELLA II provided on the accompanying disks, one can learn a lot about building and experimenting with and simulating dynamic models in a number of fields ... Highly recommended for all studying model building and practical applications of systems theory." - ChoiceRead More