Introduction to Scientific Simulation class?

[Shinaolord]

I'm not quite sure what this course will entail, but it sounds interesting as I've been very interested in simulations like this, albeit it is a math class (MA1600) and my question is mainly this: what exactly would a class like this entail? What are the usual languages used? I've been required to learn MATLAB and Mathematica for my studies (Michigan Technological University) and here is the course description; ( MA1160/1161 is calculus 1)
"Intro to Sci Simulation
Introduction to simulation, a powerful computational tool for many scientific problems. Case studies and projects will be drawn from various fields. Prior programming experience is not required; all necessary computational skills will be developed in the course.
Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
Semesters Offered: Spring
Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1160 or MA 1161"

 

[Shinaolord]

Also, will this class possibly translate into job skills--if so, which ones do you think it will provide? I assume programming experience

 

[jtbell]

If you want to find out what specific tools or software you'll be learning in that class, ask the instructor. That information was probably left out of the official course description because it's likely to change from one year to the next, or from one instructor to the next, and the department doesn't want to lock themselves into something by putting it in the catalog. Also, changing an official course description often requires jumping through bureaucratic hoops. Here, you have to submit new descriptions to the Provost, who passes them on to a faculty/administrative committee for review.

For many years I taught our two-semester introductory programming sequence. The course description didn't specify which language would be used, simply "a modern programming language." I started out (in the late 1980s) using Pascal, and switched to C++ around 1995. Then someone else took over the course in the early 2000s and switched to Java.

 

[Shinaolord]

We used Mathematica, and it was extremely interesting. I have the .nb if anyone would care to look.

 

[Matrix0]

I am excited to hear about a course that focuses on scientific simulations. Simulations are a valuable tool for understanding complex systems and making predictions in various fields of science. In this course, students will learn about the fundamentals of simulation and its applications in different scientific disciplines.

The course will likely cover topics such as numerical methods, data analysis, and visualization techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to work on case studies and projects that apply simulation to real-world problems. This will give them hands-on experience and help them develop critical thinking skills.

In terms of programming languages, it is difficult to say for certain without knowing the specific course materials and instructor preferences. However, some commonly used languages for scientific simulations include MATLAB, Mathematica, Python, and C++. It is great that you have prior experience with MATLAB and Mathematica, as these are widely used in scientific research.

Overall, this course sounds like a great opportunity for students to learn about the power and applications of simulation in scientific research. I would encourage you to take the course and explore the world of simulations further. Good luck!