Modelling Nature
Full course description
Models allow us to approach complex questions in systematic ways, for instance, by predicting weather conditions, the patterns of bird flight formations or the results of presidential elections. Such questions are present everywhere and it is through modelling that we can try to find some answers. Modelling helps us to break down what we are studying into variables, understand relations or correlations between them and even predict the future. However, we always need to be aware that models have specific limitations, and we have to use them wisely.
The core course Modelling Nature is aimed at familiarising students with model systems that are used within the different disciplines of Sciences and Social Sciences. Following a broad introduction to models and modelling, cases will address different types of models in e.g. life sciences and behavioural sciences in more depth. Case studies will illustrate the usefulness of these models in various contexts. Students will be exposed to different models used both in academia and everyday thinking, to foster a thorough understanding of natural and social phenomena. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to link models to specific situations and examples from their daily life.
Course objectives
Upon completing this course, students:
- Will be able to recall and describe the fundamental characteristics of models used in different disciplines in the natural and social sciences, including their purpose, variables and limitations;
- Can demonstrate comprehension of the underlying principles of modelling by analysing and interpreting relationships between variables within different types of models used in natural and social sciences;
- Will show their understanding of modelling by critically analyzing real-world examples and applying relevant general models and acquired modelling techniques to predict outcomes or explain phenomena encountered in their daily lives.
Prerequisites
Recommendations: This course provides an introduction to theorizing and modelling. It is relevant for a wide range of other courses that are offered at UCV, but it does require some experience in academia. It is therefore recommended that students take the course in their second or third semester.
Recommended reading
Jaccard J. and Jacoby J. (2020). Theory Construction and Model-Building Skills – A Practical Guide for Social Scientists, 2nd edition. New York: The Guillford Press.
Additional materials (original research articles and relevant knowledge clips) will be made available on Student Portal.