Simulation of complex systems

Advanced level elective course

Bachelor's degree in natural, engineering, or mathematical sciences

The course introduces the students to simulation techniques frequently used in complex systems, emphasising agent based modelling and networks. We discuss examples of applications in physics, biology and social science. The aim of the course is to 1) give the students the level of understanding needed to decide on simulation methodology for a specific problem, 2) define and implement a moderate size simulation project, and 3) evaluate the results from their simulations.

Much of modelling in the sciences focuses on simple models, highlighting key mechanisms using small sets of moving parts. However, in complex systems the interesting features are often a direct result of having large sets of particles or agents with different characteristics. This makes new tools a necessity. The course introduces simulation techniques frequently used in complex systems to handle models with many heterogeneous parts. The weight will be on agent-based modelling and networks. For each technique we discuss its background, where its strengths and weaknesses lie, and study examples in physics, biology and social science. We also learn how to validate the outcomes of simulation models in order to reach scientifically sound conclusions. Finally, we also learn how to evaluate the ethical implications of the simulations and of the choices made in the simulation models.

- Describe the fundamental ideas behind the simulation methods discussed in the course, in particular agent based modelling and networks.- Implement simulation codes in each of the methods.- Analyse and discuss the results of simulations.
- Plan, manage, execute and report a small-scale simulation project.- Discuss the ethical implications of the simulations and of the choices made in the simulation models.

The course is based on a series of lectures covering the various topics. The students work on simulation projects in groups of two to four students. A tutor supervises each group. Complementary to the lectures there are supervised computer labs where the students solve a variety of small simulation tasks which should be reported as home assignments.

The examination is based on:

- 40% homework assignments. Each homework is compulsory.
- 60% group project. This is also compulsory. The evaluation includes a oral presentation (20%) and a written report (40%).

If a student who has been failed twice for the same examination element wishes to change examiner before the next examination session, such a request is to be granted unless there are specific reasons to the contrary (Chapter 6 Section 22 HF).

If a student has received a certificate of disability study support from the University of Gothenburg with a recommendation of adapted examination and/or adapted forms of assessment, an examiner may decide, if this is consistent with the course’s intended learning outcomes and provided that no unreasonable resources would be needed, to grant the student adapted examination and/or adapted forms of assessment.

If a course has been discontinued or undergone major changes, the student must be offered at least two examination sessions in addition to ordinary examination sessions. These sessions are to be spread over a period of at least one year but no more than two years after the course has been discontinued/changed. The same applies to placement and internship (VFU) except that this is restricted to only one further examination session.

If a student has been notified that they fulfil the requirements for being a student at Riksidrottsuniversitetet (RIU student), to combine elite sports activities with studies, the examiner is entitled to decide on adaptation of examinations if this is done in accordance with the Local rules regarding RIU students at the University of Gothenburg.

The results of and possible changes to the course will be shared with students who participated in the evaluation and students who are starting the course.