Course Description

Virtually every branch of the physical and life sciences today makes extensive use of computer modeling and simulation, not only because of its descriptive and analytic powers, but also because of its ability to extend the range and reduce the cost of basic scientific investigation. Furthermore, considering the continuing exponential growth of computing power, electronic storage capacity, and data communication speeds, the applications of computing to scientific research and practice will likewise only grow.

Computational Science is a relatively novel, inherently interdisciplinary subject that puts the latest advances in computing technology and methodology at the service of scientists investigating such areas as population dynamics, epidemiology, enzyme kinetics, radioactivity, blood-cell populations, the carbon cycle, global warming, cardiovascular systems, carbohydrate metabolism, mercury pollution, polymers, galactic evolution, monetary policy, and engineering design, to name several. As one author put it, "computational science is beginning to take its rightful place alongside theory and experimentation as a third fundamental way of conducting basic research".
CSci 100, "Introduction to Computational Science", is a 3-unit course that develops the fundamental concepts of computational science, the modeling process, computer simulation, and scientific applications of computing. Through the use of numerous modules involving scientific applications in areas including astronomy, biology, chemistry, economics, engineering, finance, geology, medicine, physics, and psychology, and with the help of systems dynamics tools (such as Vensim PLE) and familiar computational tools (such as Excel), students will see first-hand how computers are used in science, as well as come to appreciate both the diversity of science and the linkages among its various areas.

Class Notes will be update each week along with the lecture

Location and Office Hours