Objectives and competences
1. Introduce the students to the principles and laws of dynamical systems behavior
2. Present the generality of systems language at the consideration of different processes on the abstract level
3. Emphasize the impact of the structure (feedback loop and delays on the systems’ behavior)
4. Development of System Dynamics models for improvement of the organizational efficiency
5. Prepare the students for the systemic approach at the solving of organizational problems; with holistic perspective not isolated from the environment
Competence in the development and modeling of advanced control systems, while taking into account feedback structures, will be acquired.
Content (Syllabus outline)
1. Introduction to cybernetics and systems theory
2. Systems Theory in the field of Organizational Sciences
3. Definition of dynamical systems
4. Cyber-physical System realization
5. Structure, state, environment
6. Dynamical systems behavior
7. Linear and nonlinear systems
8. Stability of systems
9. Basic elements of System Dynamics
10. System dynamics archetypes
11. Theory of control
12. Criterions, optimal control
13. Anticipative systems
14. Concept of complex systems
15. Organization as a complex goal oriented system
16. Entropy and information
17. Cyber-physical systems and Internet of Things in organizations
Learning and teaching methods
• lectures,
• tutorial
Intended learning outcomes - knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding:
The students
• Describe organizational systems behaviors which is dependent on the structure, attributes of entities, information and environment on different levels
• Develop abstract and holistic models of organizational systems
• Describe the procedure of state space and system dynamics modelling of complex systems
• Describe the procedure of continuous models development and apply causal-loop diagram representation techniques
• Describe the research work process in the context of doctoral studies in a variety of subject areas
Readings
1. Stroh D.P. (2015) Systems Thinking For Social Change: A Practical Guide to Solving Complex Problems, Avoiding Unintended Consequences, and Achieving Lasting Results, Chelsea Green Publishing.
2. N. Wiener (2019) Cybernetics or Control and Communication in the Animal and the Machine, Reissue of the 1961 second edition, MIT Press.
3. Luhmann N. (2012) Introduction to Systems Theory, Polity Press.
4. Meadows D. H., Wright D. (2008) Thinking in Systems: A Primer, Chelsea Green Publishing.
5. Sterman, J. D. (2000) Business Dynamics: Systems Thinking and Modeling for a Complex World, Irwin/McGraw-Hill.
6. Kljajić, M. (1994) Teorija sistemov, Moderna organizacija, Kranj.
7. Škraba, A. (2010) Teorija sistemov – zbirka nalog, Moderna organizacija, Kranj.
Additional information on implementation and assessment written exam (50 %)
oral exam (50 %)
