Analytical methods and advanced modelling

Postgraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

The objective of this course is to provide an overview of and training in analytical tools and advanced methods that will enhance building, analyzing, and establishing confidence in formal models of complex dynamic systems.

The course uses simulation models, exercises and case studies. It allows for practical experience in using qualitative and quantitative data to formulate and test models and for practical experience with methods that are often not (or not sufficiently) covered by classical modeling courses. Students learn to assess the usefulness of different methods for different problems in organisations.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the students will be able to:

Knowledge

Students

  • Demonstrate understanding of advanced contemporary approaches to estimation of model parameters, validation, sensitivity analysis, and optimization

Skills

Students

  • Apply relevant analytical approaches in small case studies .
  • Interpret and discuss outcomes of those approaches.

General knowledge

Students

  • Critically evaluate the relative strengths and weaknesses of different analytical and modeling approaches.
  • Independently identify appropriate analytical approaches for different problems in organizations and research.
  • Conduct research and model-based analysis with a high degree of independence, responsibility, and reliability.
  • Substantiate choice of approaches with reference to reliable data, evidence, or supporting argumentation .
  • Participate in theoretical and practical discussions driven by critical thinking
  • Access and interpret relevant scientific literature.
  • Write and speak effectively about their work and relevant issues.

ECTS Credits

10 ECTS

Level of Study

Master

Semester of Instruction

Spring
Required Previous Knowledge
GEO-SD302, GEO-SD303, and GEO-SD304 or other adequate background in modelling
Credit Reduction due to Course Overlap
None
Access to the Course
The course is open to graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Bergen if they have taken GEO-SD302, GEO-SD303 and GEO-SD304 or other courses that provide an adequate background in System Dynamics.
Teaching and learning methods
The course consists of live-streamed, recorded, and stored lectures with active participation by students on introductory materials and assignments and with classroom modeling and simulation activities by lecturers and teaching assistants. Course meetings include three lectures and two labs per week over a five-week period.
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
None
Forms of Assessment

One week take home exam in the last (sixth) week of the course (100% of grade)

The exam assignment will be given in the language of instruction in the course.

The exam answer must be submitted in the same language as the exam assignment.

Grading Scale
A-F
Assessment Semester
Assessment in teaching semester
Reading List
The reading list will be ready before 1 Decemeber for the spring semester
Course Evaluation
All courses are evaluated according to UiB's system for quality assurance of education.
Programme Committee
The Programme Committee is responsible for the content, structure and quality of the study programme and courses
Course Administrator
The Department of Geography at the Faculty of Social Sciences has the administrative responsibility for the course and the study programme.