The RYTE Institute uses a “developmental systems science” approach to research and evaluation to promote youth thriving. Developmental Systems Science refers to the application of systems science methodologies (such as network analysis, agent-based modeling, and system dynamics) to developmental science questions, particularly those derived from a developmental systems theoretical perspective. The phrase “developmental systems science” deliberately combines “developmental science” with “systems science” to reflect the joining of these fields. Developmental science is an approach to human development that emphasizes multidisciplinary and systemic thinking and includes the spectrum from basic to applied forms of inquiry (Lerner, 2006). Systems science refers to a family of methodologies that enable the study of complex problems and typically involve modeling and simulation.
