Types of Models

Covered in previous lesson – classification of models rather than specific types.
Continue categorising and classifying models.
Role and use of several types of models with emphasis on Dynamic and Static models. Consider structural and functional relationships in complex systems.
Simplifications usually unavoidable when modelling. Processes being considered can vary from simplistic to extremely complex, e.g .climate modelling. Time scales vary too from milliseconds or less (in areas of physics) to billions of years (formation of planet).
Modeller must be able to select processes to be explicitly included and minimise/remove those that can be ignored or simplistically represented. May be motivated by technical reasons as more complex models require more computing power.
Insightful to design model including only most important properties in order to understand in depth the nature of specific interaction between system components. Often why simple models used to analyse results of more complex models – fundamental characteristics could be hidden by number of processes and detail.