Discrete and Continuous Simulation

They adopt different but complementary worldviews.   Discrete-event simulation is generally more suitable for detailed modelling of systems where random events and mechanisms play an important part.   System dynamics, on the other hand, takes a more aggregated view of a system and is better suited to higher-level modelling, sometimes of a more strategic nature.  As well as covering the theory behind the two approaches, the course has a very practical, hands-on outlook and contains several computer practical sessions where instruction is given in two popular simulation packages. Methods covered include conceptual modelling, input and output analysis, random sampling, fitting probability distributions to data, design of simulation experiments, developing DES and system dynamics simulation models. In practical sessions, simulation models will be developed using off-the-shelf software and used to explore alternative policies.