STORYMODELERS
Every story has a model,
Every model has a story
Storymodelers at VMASC are collaborators in a modeling and simulation laboratory at Old Dominion University. We focus on how humans and systems interact to respond to global challenges, including forced migration, climate change, and political instability. Using computational social science, engineering, and other technical approaches, we collect and analyze qualitative and quantitative data to map human systems and generate practical and theoretical advancements.
CURRENT RESEARCH AREAS
ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY
2019-2022
How do communities cope with a crisis? Whether from environmental stressors, a sudden increase in population, or pandemics, adaptation to extreme events affects and is affected by social, economic, political, and structural factors. This project seeks to use modeling and simulation to theorize about these forces.
ETHNOSIM
2017 -
Multidisciplinary science and decision-making are necessary in our increasingly complex world. We seek to unite quantitative and qualitative data and researchers through collaborative co-creation of models. Working with scientists and researchers across domains, we incorporate ethnographic fieldwork and qualitative observations into simulation.
SIMULATION4ALL
2015 -
Computer simulation shouldn't just be limited to those with computer programming capabilities. If researchers and students from across all disciplines and walks of life are going to be able to contribute knowledge in the form of models, the software shouldn't be a barrier. We design and implement modeling software that makes simulation accessible to all.