SC1102 - Modelling Natural Systems

Credit points:	03
Year:	2016
Student Contribution Band:	Band 2
Administered by:	College of Science and Engineering

By providing the bridge between theory and practice this subject will demonstrate how quantitative and computing methods can be used to describe and enhance our knowledge about natural systems. 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 (Microsoft Excel and calculator) will assist with numerical calculations and graphical presentations.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate the advantages of being quantitatively skilled in a scientific environment;
• translate between verbal, algebraic, numerical, graphical and conceptual characterisations of a system;
• integrate methods and theories that span the disciplines of mathematics, science and computing to deliver a richer understanding of natural systems;
• assess how a natural system may respond under different circumstances through effective construction and application of relevant scientific modelling approaches;
• formulate recommendations that promote the sustainability of natural systems;
• define key scientific concepts relevant to the case study.

Prerequisites:

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

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 25-Aug-2016
Coordinator:	Assoc. Professor Yvette Everingham
Lecturers:	Professor Sean Connolly, Assoc. Professor Yvette Everingham, Professor Peter Ridd.
Contact hours:	29 hours lectures
Assessment:	end of semester exam (60%); quizzes or tests (15%); assignments (25%).
Cairns, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 25-Aug-2016
Coordinator:	Mr Jeremy Gordon
Lecturers:	Mr Jeremy Gordon, Assoc. Professor Jamie Seymour.
Contact hours:	26 hours lectures 26 hours tutorials
Assessment:	end of semester exam (60%); quizzes or tests (15%); assignments (25%).

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.