Modelling Complex Software Systems

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2013:

120 hours

AND

ONE of the following:

OR

433-253 Algorithms & Data Structures

None

None

Students cannot enrol in and gain credit for this subject and:

433-441 Systems Modelling and Analysis
433-641 Systems Modelling and Analysis

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Mathematical modelling is important for understanding many facets of digital complex systems. The aim of this subject is for students to understand the range and use of mathematical theories and notations in the analysis of discrete systems. Topics covered will be selected from: logic; probability and stochastic modeling; model-oriented methods for systems analysis; the use of automata, process algebra, and Petri nets in the analysis of concurrent systems; dynamical systems, networks and the analysis of complex systems.

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

• To select from a range of techniques with which to model discrete systems
• To select analysis techniques and perform analysis on discrete systems
• Have the theoretical basis for understanding modern analytical techniques and the skill to solve problems using those techniques

• Project work expected to take about 36 hours during the semester (50%)
• 3-hour examination held in the examination period (50%)

Hurdle Requirement: To pass the subject students must obtain at least:

• 25/50 in project work, and
• 25/50 in the written examination

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students should have the:

• Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
• Ability to utilise a systems approach to analysing software properties
• Capacity for independent critical analysis of models, and self-directed research for mathematical modelling approaches
• Intellectual curiosity and creativity, including understanding of the philosophical and methodological ideas behind research in software systems analysis
• Openness to new ideas and unconventional critiques of received wisdom