MR4502: APPLIED SIMULATION STUDIES (2014-2015)

Course Aims: To introduce students to the role of simulation in geosciences education and training through a problem-solving approach. To help students develop an appreciation of one way to apply knowledge and understanding to a real world problem.. To provide a means to strengthen the link between the traditional academic learning environment and employer requirements and expectations in the workplace.

Main Learning Outcomes: Practical application of knowledge and understanding to real world problems through the use of computer-based simulation. Knowledge and Understanding At the end of the course students will have a greater appreciation of the practical value and role of an applied and integrated knowledge and understanding of computer-based simulation in e.g. the marine and coastal sciences, geology, geography, and the environmental sciences. Intellectual Skills Students should be able to (a) critically evaluate background literature on the computer-based simulation, and (b) apply their knowledge and understanding of simulation studies to the coastal and marine sciences, geology, geography and the environmental sciences. Discipline-Specific Skills Students will be able to identify and use background information required and to apply this knowledge to a number of disciplines.. Key Skills Students will gain a practical appreciation of the role of computer simulation.

Content: Simulation software offers a novel and innovative way to provide the basis to combine theory with practice and draws upon many different subjects including geography, GIS/digital mapping, geology, oil and gas exploration, the marine and coastal sciences, and business etc. The first part of the course will provide essential theoretical background to computer-based simulation including the use of programming (e.g. R) and simulation software with guided practical sessions on the use of the software tools and techniques. The course/module will run for 12 weeks as a 24 hour module. A number of simulation exercises will be used as illustration, including the use of the commercial software Simprentis OilSim.

This course runs in academic year 2014-15, and in alternate years thereafter. Teaching on this course is progressive and practical. Therefore attendance at all classes is compulsory. Absence must be covered according to standard University procedures.

This course cannot be taken in the same graduating curiculum as MR3512

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

View MR4502 Timetable

More Information about Week Numbers

1st Attempt: 100% coursework-based assessment. Written exercises (50%) and a number of simulation programming exercises (50%) Resit: A resit is not normally available for this course.

A number of the simulation programming exercises will provide the students with formative assessment of their progress in relation to the summatively-assessed programming exercises making up the 50%.

Both verbal and written feedback will be provided for both the formative and summative assessments.

None.