Computing
Making Sense of Complexity: Tools for Addressing Real World Sustainability Challenges
Module code: G6103
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework
On this module, you’ll explore systems thinking – a powerful approach to tackling complex, real-world challenges across sectors.
You’ll work on a live sustainability issue identified by a local organisation. Through this, you’ll:
- learn how social and ecological systems interact
- learn to apply qualitative and quantitative methods to understand and address the challenge
- work collaboratively to design strategies that meet diverse needs, enhance possibilities and avoid unintended harm.
You’ll gain hands-on experience of systems tools used by government, charities and public sector organisations. There is also participatory workshops, data integration and case studies from Sussex researchers.
You’ll explore how data and modelling can support – but not replace – human insight and stakeholder engagement to solve difficult societal problems.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate understanding of core concepts in complex systems thinking.
- Engage constructively with diverse perspectives on real world sustainability problems.
- Apply systems thinking approaches to evaluate real world complex problems and potential responses to them.
- Reflect critically on the application of systems thinking.