ECOS1081 Evolutionary ecology modelling (5 cr)
Learning outcomes
After completing the course, the participants should
- understands the utility, limitations, and philosophical basis of formal modelling in evolutionary ecology
- knows common modelling approaches such as population genetics, quantitative genetics, optimization, game theory, adaptive dynamics, individual-based simulations, and dynamic optimization
- can write simple models in Matlab.
Study methods
Lectures and computer practice.
Content
Many students find theoretical models intimidating; the goal of this course is to make them much less so. No specialized mathematical skills are necessary, just some general knowledge about evolutionary processes. We cover a variety of modelling techniques, such as population genetics, quantitative genetics, optimization, game theory, adaptive dynamics, individual-based simulations, and dynamic optimization. Lectures are combined with guided computer sessions and independent work. For programming we use Matlab. The course is suitable to anybody interested in the subject, whether an undergraduate or postgraduate.