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System dynamics models are powerful tools, but it can take months to learn modeling at an advanced level. Gaining even advanced beginner systems modeling skills may be useful for many researchers, and may require less time. We tested this premise through a 1‐week field course in Bamako, Mali. The course included an introduction to systems thinking and modeling, a field trip to involve local stakeholders in defining a modeling problem, and 3 days of constructing a system dynamics model for simulation. After the workshop, participants expressed satisfaction with the systems thinking tools they had acquired, and saw the power of system dynamics modeling for addressing complex problems. The largest barriers to their continued use of system dynamics tools were other commitments, and the lack of a designated time and context to practice their skills further. We conclude that system dynamics modeling can be taught to an advanced beginner level (with some students reaching competence) in 1 week—but participants should be organized to continue their learning beyond the workshop. © 2023 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]