Population Dynamics

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Objectives

1. Identify the tendency for exponential growth of biological populations and explain its causes and consequences.

2. List the classical population dynamics models, giving a brief description and explaining their respective advantages and problems.

3. Identify and describe the main regulatory mechanisms for the control of population size.

4. Describe the basics of systems theory, its connection to complexity sciences and its application to population dynamics.

5. Use spreadsheets in an advanced way, in order to construct dynamic models with graphic output, use the Solver tool, use simple macro functions, and do the numeric solving of differential equations.

6. Build simple models in visual (Simile) or agent-based modelling environments (NetLogo)

7. Link the course concepts to current problems facing human societies.

8. Use advanced speadsheets in a personal and professional context.

Program

1. Theoretical

1.1. Reduccionist approach: definition of population; single population models (discrete and continuous forms of the exponential and logistic models; modelo f Leslie); population interactions (Lotka-Volterra model)

1.2. Systemic approach: system dynamics; complexity sciences.

2. Practical

2.1. Advanced modelling in Excel (incl. macros and numeric solvin of differential equations); introduction to programming in visual (Simile) and agent-based (NetLogo) modelling environments.

Teaching Methodologies

Classes are structured around a blended learning approach, with support of the Moodle platform, on which multimedia support materials are made available. In the lecture room active methods are used, with discussions centered on the application of concepts; lab classes use the demonstrative method, to facilitate the domain of the different tools.

Learning activities: Students are expected to prepare for classes in advance, by exploring resources made available by the teacher. Additional activities include group and individual study, synchronous (classroom) and asynchronous (Moodle) discussions, practical exercises on the computer and bibliographic research.

Bibliography

Begon et al., 2006. ECOLOGY. From Individuals to Ecosystems. Blackwell Publishing.

Code

0105937

ECTS Credits

3

Classes

  • Teórico-Práticas - 45 hours

Evaluation Methodology

  • Project: 50%
  • Seminar: 50%