Integration of System Dynamics and Action Research

This book focuses on improvement of participative system dynamics modeling design through integration of system dynamics and participatory action research. This followed insight from the system dynamics community that modeling process outcomes are often more important than the resulting model. The emerging integrated approach, also, referred to as SyDPAR, was evaluated against rigour and relevance criteria for information systems methodologies, making it not only an original aspect but a useful outcome. The SyDPAR approach recognises the contributions as well as benefits of clients/practitioners in participative modelling using three cycles: problem articulation, modelling proficiency, and solution refinement. In addition, it provides a general modelling framework that extends participative modelling outcomes beyond the prevalent individual, group, and organisational outcomes, culminating into contributions to the system dynamics knowledge base and system change by modellers and clients respectively. Fundamental to this book is the application of SyDPAR to higher education quality management problem area, leading to the development of a quality management tool 2009 (QMT09).