Natural Science 0140 - Modeling Systems

This course is part of an integrated science learning experience combining water resources, mathematical modeling, and microbiology using the Hampshire College Kern Center, built to the Living Building Challenge Standard, as a case study. Students will meet twice a week to explore the science behind the systems of the living building in their specific discipline. Once a week all three classes (NS132, NS140 and NS156) will meet together to complete interdisciplinary projects, share expertise, and form a collaborative science learning community. Students will read and share primary literature and work collaboratively on projects. We will learn about the campus living building from the architects and design engineers, take field tours, and meet faculty across campus engaged with the project. Students who complete this course may choose to continue their work using the living building in NS280, Collaborative Project Design, during the spring semester. Students enrolled in NS140, Modeling Systems, will focus on using mathematical models to understand the water and energy systems in the living building. We will learn what mathematical models are and when, why, and how to analyze them. We will then build simple models of systems in the Kern Center including the cycling of nutrients in the indoor planters and the energy production by the solar panels.

Physical and Biological Sciences Quantitative Skills In this course students are generally expected to spend at least 6 to 8 hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.