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Discrete Event and System Dynamics Approaches

Discover popular approaches to simulation and recognise the benefits of each methodology across a range of applications.

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  • Duration

    2 weeks
  • Weekly study

    13 hours

Discover the application of discrete-event simulation and system dynamics

On this course, you will be introduced to and encouraged to use popular approaches to simulation and select the appropriate approach for a range of applications.

You’ll also learn about the mechanisms that are used in discrete event and system dynamics approaches to model logistics operations.

What topics will you cover?

Week 1

  • Introduction and definition of discrete-event simulation
  • Why take the discrete-event simulation approach?
  • The concept of discrete events
  • Time-advance mechanisms
  • Visual examples of next event mechanisms
  • Discrete-event simulation stopping rules
  • Components and organisation of a discrete-event simulation model
  • Simulation using the discrete-event approach

Week 2

  • Defining a system dynamics approach
  • Components of system dynamics model
  • The structure of system dynamics
  • Advantages of system dynamics
  • Methodology of system dynamics
  • Symbols used in system dynamics modelling
  • System dynamics approach: a real-life case study
  • Modelling of financial problems
  • Simulate using system dynamics approach

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

  • Explain the concept of discrete event approach
  • Demonstrate the mechanisms of discrete event approach
  • Identify examples of discrete event application
  • Explain the concept of system dynamics approach
  • Demonstrate the mechanisms of system dynamics approach
  • Identify examples of system dynamics application

Who is the course for?

This course is for anyone with a keen interest in logistics operations and how to manage them efficiently while facing uncertainties in a virtual environment.

What software or tools do you need?

ARENA Simulation Software - Download the trial version.

Who developed the course?

Coventry University

Coventry secured 5 QS Stars for Teaching and Online Learning in the QS World University Ranking 2020 and has received No. 1 in the world for Massive Open Online Courses in MoocLab’s World University Ranking 2021.

  • Established

    1992
  • Location

    Coventry

Learning on FutureLearn

Your learning, your rules

  • Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
  • Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
  • Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

Join a global classroom

  • Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
  • Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
  • Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others

Map your progress

  • As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
  • Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control

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