13833 - Analysis and Modelling of Human-Environment Systems Modulübersicht

Module Number: 13833
Module Title:Analysis and Modelling of Human-Environment Systems
  Analyse und Modellierung von Mensch-Umwelt-Systemen
Department: Faculty 2 - Environment and Natural Sciences
Responsible Staff Member:
  • Prof. Dr. Müller, Birgit
Language of Teaching / Examination:English
Duration:1 semester
Frequency of Offer: Every winter semester
Credits: 6
Learning Outcome:Upon completion of the module, the students are able:
  • To recognize key features of coupled human-environment systems and to apply the knowledge in specific interdisciplinary case studies
  • To understand key principles of complex adaptive systems
  • To conceptualise, implement and analyse agent-based models investigating human-environment interactions
Contents:In order to solve the multitude of urgent environmental problems, it is indispensable to consider that there are numerous complex interactions and feedbacks between human activities and the biophysical system. This holds at different spatial scales, from local to global.
The module is an introduction to modelling human-environment systems and has two main focus areas. Firstly, the basics of complex adaptive systems and characteristics of human-environment systems will be taught from a theoretical perspective as well as by means of applied case studies. State-of-the-art interdisciplinary research papers will be discussed jointly. Emphasis is placed on the adequate representation of human behaviour in models and the use of models at the interface of science and practice. 
Secondly, basic skills of agent-based modelling are learned and applied using the NetLogo programming environment. This includes model conceptualisation and implementation of the computer model. In addition: To learn and apply various techniques of model analysis, an introduction to statistical data analysis using R is given.
Recommended Prerequisites:Basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics; basic knowledge of statistical software R
Mandatory Prerequisites:None
Forms of Teaching and Proportion:
  • Lecture / 2 Hours per Week per Semester
  • Seminar / 2 Hours per Week per Semester
  • Self organised studies / 120 Hours
Teaching Materials and Literature:
  • Marco Janssen (2020). Introduction to Agent-Based Modeling with applications to social, ecological and social-ecological systems. (ebook, 2n edition)
  • Further literature will be announced in the module.
Module Examination:Continuous Assessment (MCA)
Assessment Mode for Module Examination:
  • 6 Exercises / homework a ca. 3h ( Model conceptualisation tasks, programming tasks in NetLogo and short research paper presentations) 50%,
  • Realisation of a modelling project, conceptualisation and presentation (10-15 min) of its results on a scientific poster, 50%
Evaluation of Module Examination:Performance Verification – graded
Limited Number of Participants:None
Part of the Study Programme:
  • Master (research-oriented) - Double Degree / Environmental and Resource Management / PO 2021
  • Master (research-oriented) / Environmental and Resource Management / PO 2021
Remarks:None
Module Components:
  • Lecture / Exercise
Components to be offered in the Current Semester:
  • no assignment