Education in Complex Systems for Systems Engineers [Paper and Presentation included] [NDIA 15th Annual Systems Engineering Conference, Paper 14597]

Abstract

This paper explores the potential benefits and disadvantages associated with providing a course (or part of a course) in complex systems as part of a systems engineering graduate degree program. An overview of systems engineering education programs and a history of SE curricular design provides context for this exploration. Curriculums other than systems engineering that include courses in complexity, nonlinear dynamics, emergence, chaos, decentralized synchronization through stigmergy, scale-free networks and related topics are also examined. The application of these concepts to design problems is assessed, particularly for engineers in the defense domain. Complex systems learning objectives tailored for systems engineers are proposed. Finally, a framework on which to base a trade-off analysis to determine if such topics should be included in an existing or developing graduate degree program is recommended.