Here's a list of activities categorized by type:
Live-action participatory simulation plus an associated StarLogo model
Computer based activities to introduce programming concepts:
Computer based activities to introduce complex systems concepts:
Live-action participatory simulations to demonstrate complex systems and/or computer science concepts
The goal of this unit is to engage students in simple interactive activities to explore simple pattern formation in complex systems, and in the use, modification, and creation of agent-based models to conduct experiments on simple virtual traffic systems.
Partners and Sponsors: National Science Foundation.
Computer Models in StarLogo TNG
Challenges in applying math basics to StarLogo TNG:
In each challenge, you should use StarLogo TNG as a 2D environment (use the swap view button in SpaceLand). First, create the required number of turtles and when you hit set-up, have the turtles appear in SpaceLand where the challenge specifies. For # 4 and 5, the turtles also need to move according to the directions, when you hit the forever button. It is easier to see the turtles in SpaceLand if you set their size to 3 in setup.
What does a pinball bouncing off of bumpers have in common with a bee using landmarks to navigate back home from a flower patch? Both of these examples are instances of individuals reacting to other objects in their environment. When bees fly back to the hive they depend on landmarks in the environment to reach their destination. A bee might remember to turn left at the large oak tree and fly straight until reaching the creek, where one last right turn will bring her to the hive. Any change in the spatial arrangement of the landmarks can be devastating for the bees.
Running the activity
Walk & Turn Activity, Demo of model, and CAST
Time needed: 30 - 45 minutes
Materials needed:
Running the activity
Swords & Shields time needed: 30 - 45 minutes
Materials needed:
Running the activity
Here are links to the content of the Project GUTS Opinion Dynamics Unit, taught in 2008-2009. It followed a 4-week introductory unit focusing on coding and concepts of complex adaptive systems. This unit uses StarLogo TNG - see the related curricular unit on opinion dynamics for StarLogo Nova.
Club Leader Log for Opinion Dynamics Unit (doc)
Week 5: Introduction to Opinion Dynamics & review of complex systems
The primary goal of this unit is to engage students in simple interactive activities to explore the global climate system as a complex system, and in the use, modification, and creation of agent-based models to conduct experiments on simple virtual systems. This unit uses StarLogo TNG to create models of the polar ice caps and the albedo effect, of a mountain stream runoff system, and a water spring.
This 5-week unit was developed for Project GUTS after-school clubs, and follows a 4-6 week introductory unit teaching coding skills and basic concepts of complex adaptive systems. The curriculum is divided into 90-120 minute sections for after-school students to complete in a once-a-week meeting, with individual (or pair) modifications to the model to be presented at an end-of-unit event.
Overview of Water Resources Unit (Pacing guide) (doc)