300082 VU Introduction to ecological modelling (2023W)

The course will provide an introduction into ecological modelling. We will present and discuss common ecological modelling concepts, ranging from classical population dynamics models and biogeochemical models to spatially explicit and individual-based models, and the modelling of emergent system behaviour. Our focus will be how ecological theory can be translated into models, and how models can be used to get a better understanding of the behaviour and dynamics of ecological systems.

The course will be held in a blocked form between 8th and 19th January 2024. The first five week will consist of a mixture of lectures in the morning and practical exercises in the afternoon (full days) to become familiar with common modelling concepts and techniques. The second week will be used for individual group work. Students will work together in small groups (2-3) to address a chosen research question using the tool box of ecological modelling, with course instructors being available for guidance and support. Results of this group work will be presented and discussed in a final seminar day.

We will use R and netlogo. We will offer a crash-course into basic programming techniques if needed.

The course will take place in person in Seminar and computer rooms in the UBB. In case there will be COVID restrictions, it will be switched to an online format.