ABOUT THIS WEBSITE: Frequently Asked Questions

The following are typical Frequently Asked Questions about the material in this website:

1. QUESTION: Are BENG 5613 (“modeling”) and BENG/OMGT 5633 (“linkages”) open to any graduate student regardless of major or background?
   ANSWER: Yes, but these courses are not necessarily well-suited for everyone; that is,
• BENG 5613 (“modeling”) requires a “mindset” that is typical of someone who is capable, both psychologically and technically, of programming complex systems.
• BENG/OMGT 5633 (“linkages”) is best suited for those who welcome an open exchange of ideas and concepts among those who may have different backgrounds, experiences, expertise and perspectives.

2. QUESTION: When are these courses taught?
     ANSWER: It depends on the course.
• Historically, BENG/OMGT 5633 (“linkages”) is taught in Terms 1, 2, 3 and 4. It is also taught as a full semester course in both the Fall and Spring. However, the Fall and Spring Semester versions share blog, current event, and spreadsheet simulation assignments with the Term 1 and Term 3 classes, respectively.
BENG 5613 (“modeling”) is now offered in Term 1 (an 8-week format) and as  a full Spring Semester course.

3. QUESTION: What is the format for these courses?
     ANSWER: Both courses are web-based offered in a distance education format (via Blackboard) with all material, including lectures, being available electronically.

4. QUESTION: Is there a difference in content and assignments between the 8-week term courses and the full semester versions?
     ANSWER: No. The content and assignments are exactly the same.

5. QUESTION: Can OMGT students take the BENG 5613 (“modeling”) course?
     ANSWER: Yes, from the position of the instructor. Of course, each student needs to work through his/her respective advisers and programs to make sure this course satisfies the respective course requirements. In addition, OMGT students need to make sure that they are well-prepared to handle the computer skills needed for programming. Feel free to call the Instructor if more clarification is needed.

6. QUESTION: Where can a syllabus be obtained for these courses?
     ANSWER: A recent syllabus for each course can be obtained from this website via clicks on the following: BENG 5613 (“modeling”), and BENG/OMGT 5633 (“linkages”).

7. QUESTION: What would be the key “action phrase” that best describes each of these courses in terms of the skills that a student would gain?
     ANSWER: Likely key “action phrases” are:
• For BENG 5613 (“modeling”): “Quantifying the impacts of macro-level policy on sustainability over time”.
• For BENG/OMGT 5633 (“linkages”): “Developing critical thinking, enlightened leadership and effective communication”.

8. QUESTION: Are these two courses part of the University of Arkansas Graduate Sustainability Certificate program?
     ANSWER: Yes. Both BENG 5613 (“modeling”) and BENG/OMGT (“linkages”) are among the approved courses for this certificate.  See the following link: (List of UA Graduate Sustainability Certificate approved courses).

9. QUESTION: Is the material taught in these courses offered in non-credit settings, and if so, what format is used?
     ANSWER: It depends on the course.
• The “linkages” material in BENG/OMGT 5633 has been offered through a number of formats (workshops, seminars and presentation) to a wide range of state, national and international audiences and organizations. Each format is tailored to meet the specific needs and time constraints of the audience.
• The “modeling” material in BENG 5613 could possibly be offered in similar settings if so requested. However, this material has been limited to formal for-credit courses in recent years.

10. QUESTION: Has the material in these courses been published?
     ANSWER: Yes, and in many forms including an IPad book through the Apple Bookstore. The website lists a number of these publications.  However, there are many other publications by the Instructor that are associated with modeling but are not listed.

11. QUESTION: What is the best way to find out more about the material presented in this website including possible opportunities for “special projects/special problems” for MSE and OMGT students, especially as related to “sustainability” policies and issues?
     ANSWER: Contact the Instructor (Otto J. Loewer, 479-409-8182, OJL@uark.edu).