Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - REM 612 G100

Simulation Modelling in Natural Resource Management (5)

Class Number: 2949

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Methods of constructing simulations models and analyzing them through sensitivity analysis. Application of simulation modelling to research and management of environmental and resource systems. Topics will include management of wildlife, forests, insect pests, fisheries, pollution problems, energy resources, and recreational land use.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course teaches students how to construct, analyze and interpret simulation models of environmental and ecological systems. Models are used in environmental management as a means to better understand the system they are working in, estimate the outcome of experiments or manipulations, derive parameters to guide management, and make useful predictions. We will learn concepts like likelihood and Bayesian methods, and we will learn how to use different tools like generalized linear models, mixed effects models, and nonlinear models. We will use these tools to communicate future simulated states and describe uncertainty. A final project will challenge students with the opportunity to identify and propose a study and the associated analysis, and then simulation-test that analysis to verify it does what you think it should.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After completing REM 612, students will be able to:

  • Build deterministic and simulation models;
  • Estimate parameters using R and some estimation packages;
  • Conduct frequentist and Bayesian analyses;
  • Evaluate model fit and selection;
  • Conduct a sensitivity analysis;
  • Build powerful graphs of their data and simulated processes

Grading

  • Participation 5%
  • Tutorial Assignments 70%
  • Final Project 25%

REQUIREMENTS:

A laptop computer capable of running R locally (e.g., not Chromebook or tablet) will be required.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be provided in class.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Ecological Models and Data in R.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.