Computational Methods for Global Change Research (P02464)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : INF-P-CMGCR

The global economy, climate, and biosphere are inextricably linked, complex systems, incorporating physical, biological and social factors. Economic growth affects climate and ecosystems; climate change affects ecosystems and growth prospects; and ecosystems affect climate and provide resources for economic growth. In this course we will look at computational modelling of these complex systems, and prospects for integrated modelling. The focus is mainly on economics and climate - students should take "Environmental Modelling" (Geosciences) for more in-depth study of biosphere modelling.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : None

? Co-requisites : This course is complementary with "Environmental Modelling" offered by the School of Geosciences.

? Prohibited combinations : None

? Costs : None

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Informatics, (School of Informatics, Schedule O)

Other subject areas

Life Science Computing, (School of Informatics, Schedule O)

Learning from Data, (School of Informatics, Schedule O)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
09/01/2008	11:10	13:00			Room 4.03 - Appleton Tower

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Wednesday	11:10	13:00	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, students should be able to:
* Explain with reference to examples what types of problems can be addressed with modelling in global change research
* Discuss the commonly used computational methods in global change modelling
1. economic modelling - computable general equilibrium models, agent-based models, and systems-dynamics models
2. climate modelling - general circulation models for atmosphere and ocean
3. ecosystem modelling - system-dynamics and agent-based models
* Explain with reference to examples the limitations of the studied modelling techniques.
* Critically evaluate research literature in the field.
* Design a model or set of models to explore the economic, climate and/or ecosystem effects of a proposed policy.