Russell Richards

I am a Senior Lecturer who specialises in researching social-ecological systems. I have strong numerical modelling skills (participatory modelling, system dynamics, agent-based, Bayesian inference, Bayesian networks, generalised additive modelling) that I apply through a range of software (R, Stella Architect, Vensim, Berkeley Madonna, Netica, WinBUGS). Coding: I also have strong skills in object oriented (C#, Objective-C, Swift, Python, Javascript in P5), functional (R) and procedural (Basic) coding. I apply these modelling and coding skills to design, develop and apply decision support tools (DST) for addressing complex problems. I am especially motivated to apply these skills to create meaningful contributions in managing coastal systems that provide many ecosystem services that people benefit from.

Gamification: My unique skill set (modelling and coding of social-ecological systems) enables me to convert my DSTs into fit-for-purpose serious games relatively quickly and without the need for large resource requirements - this very much invokes the 'bedroom coder' ethos of the 1980s! My serious games draw heavily upon learning objectives, pedagogical design principles, and constructs of motivation (for learning) and fun. I focus specifically on situating my games in the domain of the end-user (e.g. students in the classroom), and away from the domain of the modeller, which lifts them above being 'just another model' (JAM). Examples of my work can be seen at https://uqcases.web.app/