CSE 498/598
Simulation of Environmental Biocomplexity

Spring Semester

CSE 498: "Simulation of Environmental Biocomplexity"(3-0-3)

Introduction and application of stochastic simulation theory and techniques to modeling Environmental Biocomplexity.

Texts:

 M. Resnick, Turtles, Termites, and Traffic Jams: Explorations in Massively Parallel Microworlds, MIT Press, 2000

S. Johnson, Emergence: The Connected Lives of Ants, Brains, Cities and Software, Scribner, 2001

D. Watts, Small Worlds: The Dynamics of Networks between Order and Randomness, Princeton University Press, 1999

A-L. Barabasi, Linked: The New Science of Networks, Perseus, 2002

Faculty-in-charge: G. Madey

Course Goal:

The goal of this course is to prepare the student to design, develop, implement and analyze simulations of environmental biocomplexity. Simulations will be built using the programming languages such as Java, and packages such as SWARM, StaLogo and Mathematica. The course will focus on modeling the unique characteristics of biocomplexity using simulation and artificial intelligence techniques. Biocomplexity refers to the dynamic web of interrelationships between physical, biological, geochemical, hydrological, environmental, ecological, social, and economic systems. The study of biocomplexity includes systems that range from molecular to global in scale, and exhibit properties that depend not only on the individual actions of their components, but also the interactions among those components. Characteristics of Biocomplexity include: 1) nonlinear or chaotic behavior, 2) interactions that span multiple levels of spatial and temporal scales, 3) often unpredictable behavior, 4) must be studied as a whole, as well as components, 5) feedback processes, and 6) often display emergent properties as a result of complex adaptive and self-organizing behavior.


Prerequisites: One course in programming (or the equivalent) and one course (or the equivalent) in probability theory

Computer Usage: Course content will be project driven. Many programs will be assigned. At least one large project will be assigned.

Laboratory Usage: None

Grading:

Programming assignments60%
Exams (2)20%
Final exam20%

Special considerations:

Course Content:

Engineering Science:2 credits
Engineering Design1 credit