269359 Practical modeling: Model structure and equation design

Saturday, October 27, 2012 : 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM

Nina Fefferman, PhD , Center for Discrete Mathematics and Theoretical Computer Science, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ
Having established the fundamentals of mathematical model design in previous presentations in the institute, this presentation now turns toward the practical aspects of the design and implementation of a mathematical model of infectious disease. The example disease outbreak used throughout the day will be extended, with a focus on determining what model structure to use to answer a particular research question. Topics will include balancing realism and complexity, parameter requirements, and the formulation of clear mathematical equations to represent these models.

Learning Areas:
Basic medical science applied in public health
Epidemiology
Other professions or practice related to public health
Protection of the public in relation to communicable diseases including prevention or control
Public health or related public policy
Systems thinking models (conceptual and theoretical models), applications related to public health

Learning Objectives:
1. Design a model that suits the learner's particular research interests. 2. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the model and its assumptions. 3. Identify sources of parameters necessary to implement the model.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am qualified to present the proposed topic because I am an experienced infectious disease modeler, with faculty appointments at Rutgers University in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Resources, as well as the Center for Discrete Math and Theoretical Computer Science. Additionally, I have extensive experience teaching mathematical modeling in a graduate and professional school setting.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

Back to: 1004.0: A gentle introduction to mathematical modeling: Lessons from the living dead