CS 195/ NR 285 Simulation Modeling I

Alexey Voinov

Online Course

This course is an introduction to simulation modeling of dynamic systems. It will familiarize participants with systems analysis and modeling with applications and case studies drawn primarily from ecology and economics. Several modeling software packages will be introduced, but mostly we will focus on Stella and Madonna. We will consider different modeling strategies and learn how to formulate, build and analyze models. Investigation of alternative modeling software packages is encouraged.

The course can be taken in an asynchronous mode entirely over the web. However there will be biweekly Q&A sessions, which will also make sure that nobody is lagging behind. You can start exploring the course by logging in at http://www.likbez.com/AV/Simmod.html. There is a quick registration to make sure that your profiles are protected. The course starts with an introduction to systems modeling concepts and modeling software. Then there is a brief introduction into some of the main mathematical paradigms that are used in dynamic modeling. After that we will consider various examples of models and explore some basic modeling techniques, such as calibration, sensitivity analysis, etc. There are exercises that should be completed over the internet. A major part of the course is to build, calibrate and run your own model for a system of your choice. We hope that some of these models can become part of your research. Course grading will be: 40% exercises, 10% class participation (over the internet using the Discussion tools provided, or during the Q&A sessions), 50% project.

Course Map

Contact Alexey Voinov at alexey.voinov@uvm.edu