Unit information: Introduction to Environmental Modelling in 2012/13

Unit name	Introduction to Environmental Modelling
Unit code	EASCM0032
Credit points	10
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1A (weeks 1 - 6)
Unit director	Dr. Siddall
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	Successful completion of years 1-3 of either the Environmental Geoscience or the Geology degree programme curriculum Completion of EASC20030 Independent Development of Environmental Geoscience Skills I, or similar introduction to computer programming, or a good background in mathematics.
Co-requisites	n/a
School/department	School of Earth Sciences
Faculty	Faculty of Science

Description including Unit Aims

This unit provides an introduction to modelling in the environmental sciences. The objective is to introduce basic concepts of modelling used in the investigation of scientific problems on a computer. Specific modelling case studies will be explored in depth to give students the theory and application of these concepts in climate science.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion the student will:

• Understand the principles of environmental modelling and be able to apply them

• Understand numerical methods

• Understand the basic equations behind numerical models

• Describe many applications of environmental modelling

• Write code in MatLab

• Run and interact with a computer model from a command line

• Use a computer model to investigate a scientific hypothesis and analyse the results

Teaching Information

Lectures and practicals.

Assessment Information

Assessment is in the form of two marked assignments (40% + 10%) and a closed, written exam in January (50%).

Reading and References

Cushman-Roisin, Benoit & Beckers, Jean-Marie, Introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, 2nd Edition Volume 101 Physical and Numerical Aspects, Academic Press (checking with Mark S).