Computer Science in Science PD: Introduction to Complex Adaptive Systems - Discussion

I agree with each one of these in this thread. I love all the life science examples.

I recently read a fascinating description of the complex and unpredictable path that photons of light travel, over perhaps tens of thousands of years, to actually escape the sun and begin the journey through space. The photons interact with countless charged particles that change their motion.

Since we are in a drought in Southern California, I plan to do some lessons around water use and how it is changing due to the drought. I think this could be presented as a Complex Adaptive System.

Science as a whole is based on systems.

Gas particles and changing motion due to temperature or pressure changes.

Good one. Didn’t think of that!

As a home ec teacher nothing comes to mind that I teach that is a complex adaptive system with simple rules, no leader and a pattern that forms.

In chemistry, atoms or molecules that make up matter in the solid, liquid or gas state form a complex adaptive system. These particles are leaderless and self-organizing. They are each governed by energy transfer in collisions to form emergent patterns. If conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and volume, are changed, the collection of particles adapts to that change.

Interaction at plate boundaries forming mountains in some areas while creating trenches in other areas. Earthquakes and tsunamis are all part of this Complex Adaptive System.

In computer technology, sometimes the speed at which the computers can communicate with our network can vary, depending on how many computers are accessing our network at that specific moment in time.

Particles of matter colliding with each other, forming and breaking bonds, completing chemical reactions.

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I like this. Very good example. :smile:

The immune system. It is composed of many cells, there is no leader or individual who is coordinating the action of others, through the interactions of the agents emergent patterns are generated, and if elements of the system are altered, the system adapts or reacts.

I teach physical science and I agree with the many examples of complex adaptive systems presented. I was also thinking about the many models that scientists use to explain processes or objects.

I am thinking of the macro invertbrates that are in the creek we study.

I teach Physical Science and think Newton’s Laws follow an adaptive system.

Ecosystems and the schools of fish found in bodies of water. Their movement is similar to that of the flock of birds mentioned in the video.

A food web demonstrates aspects of a CAS. Food webs are leaderless, and have emergent patterns and adaptations through the need for survival of organisms.

We learn about cells in the 7th grade. All the different types in the human body are a part of a complex adaptive system. They all have different roles to play to help the human body function properly.

Could an viral epidemic such as the flu be considered a CAS? With certain outbreaks the mutations were difficult to predict causing detrimental results. There is no particular leader, there are a few rules that govern the mutation and a pattern can be discovered eventually which allows people to attempt to predict which outbreak MAY occur but cannot not be positive.