SC1102 - Modelling Natural Systems

Credit points:	03
Year:	2013
Student Contribution Band:	Band 2
Administered by:	School of Engineering

By providing the bridge between theory and practice this subject will demonstrate how quantitative methods can be used to solve real world problems and enable scientists with a deeper understanding of system processes. This subject will be presented by a series of motivating and in depth case studies that span a range of biophysical settings with an emphasis on applications relevant to tropical systems. Computing technologies will assist with numerical calculations and practical presentations.

Learning Outcomes

• through effective application of quantitative techniques, empower students with ability to enhance their knowledge of real world systems and solve real world practical problems;
• equip students with the capability of translating between verbal, algebraic, numerical, visual and conceptual characterisation of a system;
• demonstrate the advantages of being quantitatively skilled in a scientific environment;
• demonstrate the accessibility of mathematics and increase student familiarity with associated terminology.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to define and to solve problems in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments, and to reason and deploy evidence clearly and logically;
• The ability to find and access information using appropriate media and technologies;
• The ability to evaluate that information;
• The acquisition of coherent and disciplined sets of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics from at least one discipline area;
• The ability to manage future career and personal development;
• The ability to generate, calculate, interpret and communicate numerical information in ways appropriate to a given discipline or discourse;
• The ability to work individually and independently;
• The ability to select and use appropriate tools and technologies.

Prerequisites:

MA1020 or Senior Mathematics or equivalent and allow concurrent enrolment for MA1020

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 29-Aug-2013
Coordinator:	Dr Yvette Everingham
Lecturers:	Professor Sean Connolly, Dr Yvette Everingham.
Contact hours:	26 hours lectures 26 hours tutorials 3 hours - Class tests to be held in normal lecture room.
Assessment:	end of semester exam (% - 60%); quizzes or tests (15% - 75%); assignments (25%).
Cairns, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 29-Aug-2013
Coordinator:	Mr Jeremy Gordon
Lecturers:	Mr Jeremy Gordon, Assoc. Professor Jamie Seymour.
Contact hours:	26 hours lectures 26 hours tutorials 3 hours
Assessment:	end of semester exam (60%); quizzes or tests (30%); assignments (10%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.