Ecosystem Modelling

Recommended Prerequisites

Mathematics.

Teaching Methods

PPT, computer exercises.

Learning Outcomes

Students learn to assess the benefit of mathematical models in environmental management and sciences. They know typical application of mathematical models in environmental sciences and are able to discuss the results critically. Students are able to image selected processes in aquatic ecosystems with numeric simulation models. Curiousness to own model forming for relevant environmental systems and skills in scientific mediation are supported.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

This module mediates the fundamental preconditions, working stages and aims in environmental modeling. With the help of plain conceptional models typical questions as well as the main model types and mathematical methods will be introduced. With the help of a focus topic (e.g. biodiversity or eutrophication) existing simulation models will be evaluated as well as own model approaches developed and discussed. Submodels and simulation calculations developed in groups, help to image dynamically consequences of environmental changes and to assess potentials and limits of scenarios. Practical exercises encompasses the work with cellular atuomata, individual based models and/or equation based models, mainly implemented and analysed in R, MATLAB or NETLOGO.

Head Lecturer(s)

José Paulo Filipe Afonso de Sousa

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Report of a seminar or field trip: 100.0%

Bibliography

Haefner, J.W. (2005): Modelling biological systems: principles and applications. 2nd edition.

Soetaert, K & and PMJ Herman (2009): A Practical Guide to Ecological Modelling.