Where science unravels more and more physiological, physical and ecological processes, models can help to synthesize this knowledge in a consistent numerical framework. Also, when field experiments are impossible, unethical or excessively expensive, simulation experiments can be used to forecast the outcome of different treatments or climate scenarios. This course will introduce the different usages of numerical models. The basic tools of the trade will be introduced and implemented during supervised computer-based exercises. Moreover, a challenging model simulating self-organisation of vegetation in arid regions will be built. The course builds on ecological, physical and mathematical knowledge and skills obtained during the BSc years to construct new skills: basic computer programming, numerical modelling and critical thinking in the context of numerical models.

Contact hours listed under a course description may vary due to the combination of lecture-based and independent work required for each course therefore, CEA's recommended credits are based on the ECTS credits assigned by VU Amsterdam. 1 ECTS equals 28 contact hours assigned by VU Amsterdam.

Course includes a lab component.