Practice in theoretical ecology for all experience levels

Content and goals

This course provides an introduction to (or time for reflection on) the basics of theoretical ecology for participants of all experience levels. An interest in ecological interactions is assumed but the course may be of interest to those working on other complex systems as well.

We plan to cover
(1) the strengths and weakness of theory and the particular utility of theory for ecological questions
(2) the basics of population dynamics to show how the mere definition of biology leads to complex outcomes
(3) analysis of a predator/prey model through a variety of methods
(4) the basics of simulation modeling with a collective behavior model
(5) how to incorporate the influence of competition into optimization models with game theory and
(6) identifying areas of your research where theory may be useful.

Competences gained:

Participants will gain familiarity with the tools of mathematical and simulation-based modeling to develop their own theory. You will gain the skills needed to engage with published theory, identify and evaluate key assumptions of theory, and find the value of theories to motivate your empirical work.

Participants who already have a familiarity with ecological theory will strengthen their foundation in the basics of the field. You will have opportunities to practice explaining complex concepts to others and through open interactions improve your ability to communicate theory with others. The skills and understanding of the concepts presented in the workshop generally benefit from repetition.

Methods:

Lectures, in-class exercises, group work, homework challenges, and readings.

Target group:

Doctoral researchers. Other interested researchers are more than welcome.
Participants need only an interest in understanding complex systems, which contain multiple interacting parts that generate emergent patterns of interest.

Course dates and times:

12-15 February 2024, 9:00 -12:00. Activities will be planned for 9-11. The 11-12 hours will be reserved for any extra conversation or work on activities that come up.