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Interactive CLD Builder

Run the CLD Builder Fullscreen

Sample iframe reference

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<iframe
   src="https://dmccreary.github.io/infographics/sims/cld-builder/main.html"
   width="100%" height="640" scrolling="no">
</iframe>

About This MicroSim

This builder tool lets learners construct causal loop diagrams from scratch. Variables are placed by clicking on the canvas, causal links are drawn between variables with positive (+) or negative (−) polarity, and the Identify Loops function analyzes the diagram to classify each closed loop as Reinforcing (R) or Balancing (B).

How It Works

  1. Add Variable mode: click the canvas to place a variable node
  2. Add Link mode: click a source variable, then a target variable to draw a causal arrow
  3. Select/Move mode: drag variables to reposition, double-click to rename or delete
  4. Identify Loops: analyzes all paths and classifies each closed loop

A loop with an even number of negative links (including zero) is Reinforcing — it amplifies change. A loop with an odd number of negative links is Balancing — it resists change.

Lesson Plan

Learning Objective

Construct a causal loop diagram by placing variables, drawing causal links with polarity indicators, and identifying the resulting loop types.

Activities

  1. Click Load Example to see a pre-built 4-variable reinforcing loop. Click Identify Loops to classify it.
  2. Click Clear All and build your own CLD about a topic you know (e.g., exercise → fitness → health).
  3. Try creating a balancing loop by using at least one negative (−) link.
  4. Build a diagram with both reinforcing and balancing loops and use Identify Loops to verify.

References