Simulation, Science, and Stakeholders: Challenges and Opportunities for Modelling Solutions to Societal Problems

The article outlines an approach to computer modelling called “human simulation,” whose development has been explicitly oriented towards addressing societal problems through transdisciplinary efforts involving stakeholders, change agents, policy professionals, subject matter experts, and computer scientists. It describes the steps involved in the creation and exploration of the “insight space” of policy-oriented artificial societies, which include both analysing societal problems and designing societal solutions. A case study is provided, based on an (ongoing) research project studying “emotional contagion” related to misinformation, stigma, and anxiety in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with lessons learned about some of the challenges and opportunities facing scientists and stakeholders trying to simulate solutions to complex societal problems.publishedVersio

A fast algorithm for control and estimation using a polynomial state-space structure

One of the major problems associated with the control of flexible structures is the estimation of system states. Since the parameters of the structures are not constant under varying loads and conditions, conventional fixed parameter state estimators can not be used to effectively estimate the states of the system. One alternative is to use a state estimator which adapts to the condition of the system. One such estimator is the Kalman filter. This filter is a time varying recursive digital filter which is based upon a model of the system being measured. This filter adapts the model according to the output of the system. Previously, the Kalman filter has only been used in an off-line capacity due to the computational time required for implementation. With recent advances in computer technology, it is becoming a viable tool for use in the on-line environment. A distributed Kalman filter implementation is described for fast estimation of the state of a flexible arm. A key issue, is the sensor structure and initial work on a distributed sensor that could be used with the Kalman filter is presented

Computational tools for multi-linked flexible structures

A software module which designs and tests controllers and filters in Kalman Estimator form, based on a polynomial state-space model is discussed. The user-friendly program employs an interactive graphics approach to simplify the design process. A variety of input methods are provided to test the effectiveness of the estimator. Utilities are provided which address important issues in filter design such as graphical analysis, statistical analysis, and calculation time. The program also provides the user with the ability to save filter parameters, inputs, and outputs for future use

The future of community policing in the context of basic police academy training

The entire dissertation/thesis text is included in the research.pdf file; the official abstract appears in the short.pdf file (which also appears in the research.pdf); a non-technical general description, or public abstract, appears in the public.pdf file.Title from title screen of research.pdf file (viewed on December 13, 2007)Vita.Thesis (Ed. D.) University of Missouri-Columbia 2007.The purpose of this study was to forecast the likely and desirable conditions associated with community policing training during basic police academy training by seeking consensus among experts regarding selected conditions associated with community policing concepts and practices. The process utilized the Delphi method of inquiry. Experts in community policing and police training were selected to serve on one of two panels, an external panel and an internal panel. The external panel was tasked with developing a survey instrument. The internal panel was asked to respond to the statements of the survey designed by the external panel. This process was done in successive rounds during which the panelists were made aware of the previous round.s results to inform their rankings and commentary. The findings from this study show clear support from police training experts for community policing training to become an integral part of basic police training academies. Nevertheless, respondents surveyed indicate that little is currently occurring that integrates community policing into efforts of police training academies and, moreover, respondents have little faith that such integration will occur in the foreseeable future. In essence, based on their predictions, the state of community policing and basic police training appears likely to remain unchanged.Includes bibliographical reference

Human Simulation and Sustainability: Ontological, Epistemological, and Ethical Reflections

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Human Simulation and Sustainability : Ontological, Epistemological, and Ethical Reflections

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Modeling the effects of religious belief and affiliation on prosociality

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Minding morality : ethical artificial societies for public policy modeling

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