Skills for Dynamic Models

The chapter “Skills for Dynamic Models” provides worked examples of the dynamic models presented in Part 1, both in spreadsheets and in R. It also covers some of the mathematical steps used in model analysis. In most cases, instructions are given for both spreadsheets and R. However, when some activities are far easier to do in a programming environment than in spreadsheets, only the instructions for R are shown. The chapter starts out by discussing the skills needed for structured population models, including setting up age structure and creating cobweb plots. Next, it reviews the skills needed for multivariable models, including calculating isoclines and Jacobian matrices. Finally, it introduces the concept of Monte Carlo methods and provides guidance on how to implement them.