Knight Talks Tech

Category: 02 – Understanding Systems

  • Metaphors

    Form of model used by humans to communicate. Still a form of abstraction. Used to represent something but not in literal sense – putting a complex explanation into simple terms. Examples: Food for thought Something that warrants serious consideration Lions lead by Donkeys German High Command description of the British Army in World War 1…

  • System walkthrough and Consistency testing

    System walkthrough Explaining model to another person/persons – enables modeller to focus on different aspects and to discover problems. Writing system documentation can have the same effect to by making to modeller look at model from different perspective. Consistency testing Check model produces similar results for input parameter values that have similar effects. Example: Network…

  • Model Validation and Verification

    Model is abstraction & consists of assumptions we make. In creation we remove unnecessary detail  and focus on elements of system that are in important from desired performance point of view. Assumptions about system must be made during model construction therefore we must check that the model is a good fit. Process of robust model…

  • A framework for models

    Many different types of models but Ackkoff (1962) proposes three categories: iconic model – expected to behave same as real thing. e.g. scale model of ship or model aircraft in wind tunnel. analogue model – attempt to simulate behaviour without necessarily replicating physical appearance. e.g. computer games like Forza and FIFA. analytical model – developed…

  • Model Definition

    Useful when considering situation without losing holistic viewpoint, example of modelling is boundary and environment diagram. The type of model used should be the best suited based on our understanding of the situation. A model is an abstraction of reality, to abstract is to summarise. Models are created because: Real life is complex – not…

  • Models

    Identify and define what a model is, also when and how best apply a particular model. “Model” can be used in different contexts to mean different things e.g.: The model, although not to scale, lets us see how the planets orbit the sun. The super model was demonstrating the latest fashions at the show. The…

  • Holistic/Reductionist

    See previous post on Holistic and Reductionist views. Reductionist view – breaks system into sub-systems & individual functions. Can produce a lot of information on system operation. E.g. Different HND courses HND and Degree courses Individual tutors Individual support teams Performance of technical infrastructure Holistic view – looks at wider view of system. E.g. Number…

  • Stakeholders and Perspectives

    See previous post on Stakeholders and Perspectives. Stakeholders involved in the e-learning company are: Students – can have many perspectives. Some may be happy with studies, others having difficulties. Their perspective may change when they receive marks for exams or coursework. Recruitment/Enrolment/Payment Processing staff – perspectives can change according to targets set for them and…

  • Emergence and Dynamic Equilibrium

    Emergence: Elements that should emerge are happy qualified students. Unintended potential elements that could emerge are failed students. Equilibrium: maintained by using feedback and control mechanisms discussed earlier. Additionally: organisation will continually match student numbers to staff continually review student fees against those charged by competitors Organisation will try and ensure system is in balance…

  • Group Feedback

    This post covers my proposal to the group feedback question set within the lesson. System: Administration Purpose: System to ensure students are able to study for a qualification and for tutors to teach. Goals/Objectives: Provide information to potential students. Facilitate registration of students. Provide scheduling information to tutors. Provide assistance with general queries. Definition (what…