Modeling of environmental processes 1900-3-MPS-ZAS
The course is part of the "Integrated Teaching Development Program – ZIP 2.0" project, co-financed by the European Social Fund – European Funds for Social Development 2021-2027 (FERS) (contract number: FERS.01.05-IP.08-0365/23-00).
The course is dedicated to modeling various processes occurring in the natural environment. The aim of the course is to familiarize students with selected types of environmental models, as well as the tools and methods used in their creation.
The exercises include learning how to use computer software, including geographic information systems, to design, modify, or run selected models of environmental processes.
The following topics will be covered in the course:
- modeling insolation, solar radiation, and active surface irradiance;
- modeling the backward and forward trajectories of air particles and atmospheric pollutants;
- examples of hydrological process models: fields of application, data requirements, and limitations;
- Modeling hydrological processes in GIS: determining the directions of surface influence, defining catchment boundaries, assessing catchment hydrological characteristics based on available spatial data;
- Example of catchment runoff modeling using spatial data in GIS;
- Integral model of a river basin describing the formation of a rainfall flood. Simple simulation of a flood wave using HEC HMS software; evaluation and interpretation of simulation results;
- USLE soil erosion model - calculation, verification of the impact of parameter changes on the result;
- Modeling in the design of ecological corridors.
The list of topics is preliminary and may change during the course.
Individual topics may be discussed in more than one class.
Student workload: 3 ECTS x 25h = 75h, including:
(N) – work in direct contact with the teacher,
(S) – student's own (independent) work.
Consultations (N) = 15h
Preparation for exercises (S) = 25h
Classes (N) = 30h
Consultations (N) = 15h
Preparation for exercises (S) = 25h
Main fields of studies for MISMaP
Course coordinators
Type of course
Mode
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes (codes): S6_W06, S6_W08, S6_U05, S6_U07, S6_U10,
S6_K03, S6_K04
After completing the course, the student:
KNOWLEDGE
- understands the terminology related to computer modeling of the natural environment
- knows the principles of operation of selected models of the natural environment
- knows the methods used in modeling using geographic information systems
- understands the environmental processes being modeled
SKILLS
- is able to select the appropriate model for the analyzed process or phenomenon
- is able to use existing models in spatial environmental analyses
- is able to independently create a simplified model of an environmental process based on available data and known relationships
- is able to perform data assimilation, model validation, and quality control
COMPETENCIES
- is aware of the importance and role of environmental process modeling in contemporary research on the Earth, the natural environment, and its components
- is aware of the difficulties and limitations associated with using the results of environmental process modeling in decision-making and research
- is ready to plan and implement their own work, in accordance with the instructor's guidelines and course requirements
Assessment criteria
Continuous assessment. Each exercise performed by a student is subject to a point assessment. The number of points available depends on the level of difficulty and complexity of the exercise.
Assessment criteria for exercises:
substantive and technical accuracy, completion of all instructions within the allotted time, appropriate selection of research tools and methods,
completeness and clarity of the result, and independence of work (in the case of exercises performed individually).
The final grade is based on the total number of points earned by the student throughout all classes. To receive a passing grade, the student must obtain at least 51% of the total possible points.
Attendance at exercises is mandatory. Two unexcused absences are permitted. The total number of all absences (excused and unexcused) cannot exceed 7. Absence from classes does not relieve the student of the obligation to complete all exercises and make up missed work by the deadline specified by the instructor. Students must complete all exercises included in the course syllabus.
Practical placement
none
Bibliography
none