A multi-university cohort model for teaching complex and interdisciplinary problem-solving using system dynamics

The complexity of agricultural and natural resources (AGNR) systems continues to thwart long-term management efforts to address root causes of problems. Unfortunately, capacity building in systems thinking and system dynamics (SD) modeling by AGNR educational programmes has not kept pace with other disciplines, stalled by accelerated specialization and disciplinary fragmentation. Here, we describe a 1-year, interdisciplinary cohort programme aimed at SD capacity building for AGNR education. Student cohorts investigated unresolved, real-world management problems following the SD approach. Problems included weed herbicide resistance in cultivated agriculture, land acquisition for biodiversity conservation and adoption of soil conservation practices by farmers. The fellowship process is outlined followed by descriptions of each cohort's model and insights they generated. Exit interviews illuminated valuable reflections regarding team cohesion, the role of SD in enhancing traditional graduate studies and structural adjustments to enhance future fellowship delivery. We conclude with recommendations to others interested in delivering similar programmes.