Types of model; regression analysis and empirical modelling; geographically weighted regression; surface modelling, spatial analysis and prediction; modelling environmental processes; mass and energy balances; modelling system dynamics; feedbacks; modelling cycles in nature (hydrological cycle, carbon cycle, climate); modelling surface flows , 1D and 2D approaches; model parameterisation: surface friction and non-spatial conditions; model boundary conditions: topography; assessing model accuracy and uncertainty; risk assessment; modelling and mapping risk in GIS. Examples such as landslide risk, soil erosion, population dynamics, global energy balance, rainfall-runoff and flood inundation modelling.
This course is intended to provide a thorough introduction to environmental modelling, using GIS as a primary tool for spatial analysis. A strong emphasis is placed on the use of examples and the course builds in complexity from simple empirical models based on regression analysis to complex process-based models which solve mass- and energy-balance equations. In the latter part of the course, flood inundation modelling is used as an in-depth example to demonstrate several issues in modelling, from model preparation and setup, to issues in data uncertainty and model accuracy. The course builds strongly on the second-year course GEOG 2010 Geographical Information Systems and the third-year course GEOG 3113 Remote Sensing and GIS; and introduces students to advanced data handling and spatial analysis.
This course introduces students to the theory and principles of environmental modelling within the context of GIS. The course builds strongly on the second-year course GEOG 2010 Geographical Information Systems and the third-year course GEOG 3113 Remote Sensing and GIS; and introduces students to advanced data handling and spatial analysis methods such as geostatistics. Students gain practical skills and hands-on experience in the use of a variety of environmental models and advanced GIS analysis techniques, using open-source GIS software tools. A variety of applications of environmental modelling are introduced, including the modelling of landslide risk, population dynamics, soil erosion, energy balance, rainfall-runoff and flood inundation. Flood inundation modelling is used as an in-depth example to explore issues in data handling, model uncertainty and accuracy assessment, and risk analysis.
The University of the West Indies
St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
Tel: (868) 662-2002
Fax: (868) 663-9684
Department of Geography
Faculty of Food and Agriculture
UWI St. Augustine
Tel: (868) 662-2002 Ext. 84129
