Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

CEG8501 or CEG8006

Aims

The module aims are to:
•Introduce different types of modelling approaches used to represent and manage natural catchment and river systems and water infrastructure.
•Develop understanding of methods and skills used in modelling.
•Apply different modelling approaches to practical problems relevant to the water industry.

The module introduces the background to different types of modelling used to represent both natural hydrological systems and water resources infrastructure. Different modelling concepts and approaches are described, from relatively simple lumped models through to complex physically based models for catchments,stochastic rainfall models, and broader systems-based approaches. Essential tools and methods are presented to address problems of model calibration, validation, and uncertainty. Advanced hydroinformatic skills are developed, including use of programming for data and model management. Case studies address use of modelling for practical problems of water management under pressures including climate change.

Outline Of Syllabus

Students will be introduced to modelling concepts and procedures, including calibration, validation, uncertainty and optimization. Data and model preparation will be examined using appropriate tools (e.g. python). Students will examine different types of models which may include catchment rainfall-runoff models, 1D river hydrodynamic models and time series rainfall models, as well as model selection and limitations. Students will learn the key features and properties of global climate models and different methods for downscaling their outputs to finer scales, and how their outputs may be used with hydrological models to assess the effects of climate change. The use of scenarios with models for decision-making will be examined. A range of model types used in the water industry for different applications (potentially including water resources, urban water systems, groundwater, flood risk) will be introduced.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of this module, students should be able to:-

1.       Differentiate between different types of hydroinformatics models (M3, M4).
2.       Compare a range of modelling techniques (M3, M4).
3.       Explain the assumptions and limitations of different models in practical applications (M3).

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of this module, students should have achieved the following skills:-
General:
1.To select and apply appropriate hydroinformatic models in practical applications (M3)

Subject-specific / practical skills:
2. To demonstrate and appraise the application of specific modelling techniques (M3).
3. To employ software tools to solve practical problems (M2, M4).

Cognitive Skills:4. To identify, use, and appraise appropriate mathematical methods for analyzing practical problems in the water sector (M1, M2, M3).
5. To identify and use scientific principles in the development of engineering and environmental solutions to practical problems in the water sector (M2, M5, M17).

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The basic qualitative and quantitative understanding represented by the knowledge outcomes is imparted via a mix of formal teaching, practicals and tutorial sessions with active student participation. The tutorial sessions provide an opportunity for students to improve their grasp of the subject, to question the lecturer and to practice the analytical and solution techniques. Three coursework assignments provide opportunity for development and demonstration of fundamental skills and application of the acquired knowledge.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The computer assessment assesses the ability to set up and assess a hydrological model using a range of techniques (knowledge outcomes 1 and 2) and to select, apply and appraise different models and modelling techniques (skills outcomes 1-4). The written exercise assesses the ability to critically apply a range of appropriate models and modelling techniques (knowledge outcomes 2 and 3) and to compare different techniques and tools in a problem-solving context related to hydrology (skills outcomes 2-5).

General Notes

N/A