An APL implementation of the Club of Rome's world model

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses an application which models world population dynamics using initial value differential equations. The program provides the user with a simple interface that anyone with any level of experience with APL can use to generate different scenarios. In addition, the discoveries and difficulties encountered by a student using APL for the first time are explored.

REFERENCES

• 1: Forrester, Jay W. 1971. World Dynamics. Cambridge, Mass.: Wright-Allen Press.
• 2: Meadows, Donella H., Dennis L. Meadows and Jorgen Randers. 1992. Beyond the Limits: Confronting Global Collapse, Envisioning a Sustainable Future. Post Mills, Vt.: Chelsea Green Publishing Company.
• 3: Meadows, Donena H., Dennis L. Meadows, Jorgen Randers and William W. Behrens III. 1972. The Limits to Growth: A Report for the Club of Rome's Project on the Predicament of Mankind. New York: Universe Books.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.2 Language Classifications

          Nouns: APL

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES
      H.1.2 User/Machine Systems
          Subjects: Human information processing

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.6 SIMULATION AND MODELING

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors, Languages