Visualization of Complex Systems - The Two-Shower Mode

This paper addresses ongoing research into visualization of system dynamics models to help the understanding of complex systems. The paper discusses a prototype under development named “The Two-Shower Model”. This collaborative interactive learning environment presents learners with a seemingly simple task: to reach a pleasant temperature in two showers that share the same hot water resource. This is however an example of a complex nonlinear system that may be difficult to control. Both particpants must reach an understanding of how the system works in order to be able to control it together. The paper discusses how visualizations may assist the participants in that process.