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http://hdl.handle.net/1956/2647
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| Tittel: | Visualization of complex systems |
| Forfattere: | Viste, Magnhild |
| Dato: | 4-Jan-2008 |
| Forlag: | The University of Bergen |
| Sammendrag: | Complex systems are difficult to understand. To aid understanding of complex
dynamic systems the field of system dynamics has developed a set of visualization
methods for graphic representation of the simulation models of complex systems. The
resulting visualizations, however, may sometimes be difficult to understand for
audiences without a background in the scientific investigation of complex dynamic
systems. It is therefore necessary to find new ways of representing complex systems
with the purpose of making them more accessible. This thesis describes how system
dynamic models may be visualized with a particular audience in mind – novice
system dynamics students. The use of narrative elements and multimedia in the
development of the user interface is explored. A variety of theories and research
fields, such as narrative theory, system dynamics, human computer interaction, and
computer support for collaboration and learning (CSCL) are utilized in the study. The
project includes analysis and development of visualizations of system structure,
behavior, and narratives that link and explain the relationship between structure and
behavior of complex dynamic systems.
Two prototypes of interactive learning environments are developed and evaluated in
the project: The Two-Shower prototype and The Quito prototype. The Two-Shower
prototype is based on a small model of a complex system and portrays two showers
that share a hot water tank. The model is a metaphorical model and represents a
simple system for resource sharing. The second model is a model of Quito, the capital
of Ecuador, and describes the dynamics of the citizens, tourists, pollution, and the
maintenance of Quito’s UNESCO enlisted historic buildings. The Two-Shower
prototype is evaluated by usability tests and suggestions for new design are made.
The experiences from the development of the Two-Shower prototype are then
discussed considering how they may be transferred to the Quito prototype, which is
based on a larger model. Being a model of a social system, it portrays issues that are
more complex. Modeling of social systems raises some particular issues regarding choice and representation of variables. The thesis attempts to make bridges between
complex system theory, system dynamics, visualization, and learning theory – as
related to design. |
| URI: | http://hdl.handle.net/1956/2647 |
| ISBN: | 978-82-308-0482-7 (print version) |
| Vises i samlingene: | Department of Information Science and Media Studies
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