ABSTRACT
Dynamic urban models can be brought to bear for studying the evolution of urban systems. This chapter explores participatory urban simulation here by developing prototype systems that allow human participation in a computer simulation of urban retail. The Kolb learning cycle used in experiential learning suggests that the capability to experiment with system behaviour could be of benefit to stakeholders learning about the likely behaviour of a system, even if that experience is gained in a virtual system rather than a real one. The chapter focuses on agent-based models because they provide an opportunity for a user to control individual system actors. During the agent-based simulation run, one can see the process of retail zone emergence, growth and decline that occurs in the simulation. The chapter discusses the agent-based model into a game for two people to role-play as large chain-store retailers/developers, each owning half of all the shops in a region.
