Earth Systems Science Course in Watersheds & Coastal Zone Simulation Modeling 2 -13 October 2000 Miramare, Trieste, Italy The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) is organizing a Earth Systems Science Course in Watersheds & Coastal Zone Simulation Modeling, to be held from 2 to 13 October 2000, in Trieste, Italy. The co-organizers will be T. S. Hopkins (MEAS/NCSU, USA) and R. Pagnotta (CNR - Rome, Italy). The Course will be co-sponsored by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Science (KFAS). The main aim of the Course is to introduce the students to the scientific methodology for the management of anthropogenically impacted natural systems. In order to enhance specificity, the course will focus on the topical theme of Watersheds and Coastal Zones. The trainee will: � Learn the procedures and rationale of the Systems Approach for quantifying complicated interactive systems. � Learn how to design conceptual models, parameterize data input, formulate internal processes, utilize dimensional analysis, and validate model output. � Learn how to apply EXTENDTM simulation software to tracing the flow of mass, energy and information through a watershed/coastal zone system. � Construct a number of 'learning models' and design, and construct 'Project Model' on a sub-system of individual interest to the student. � Learn various strategies of measurement needed for model validation and simulation and for implementation of specific monitoring programs. � Gain experience designing and discussing simulation results, both from the scientific and managerial points of view, by presenting his/her Project Model and reviewing those of others. Due to the deteriorating capacity of natural systems to provide the goods and services (Natural Capital) to the increasing human population, there is an urgent need for quantitative assessments of these systems in relation to the anthropogenic stresses exerted on them in order to guide socio-economic decision-making in their 'sustainable management'. Earth Systems Science (ESS) is the emerging academic/research field responding to this need. Future researchers in ESS, whether specifically labeled so or not, will need to be proficient in some aspect the design, application and interpretation of this new genre of Natural Capital modelling and assessment. The ESS approach is inexpensive and transportable, factors that make it a highly desirable tool for lesser-developed countries struggling to preserve the sustainability of their natural systems. An important aspect of the ESS is the use of the Systems Approach in which combination of holistic design and reductionist detail are combined to optimize coverage and resolution in the parameter space of the natural system subjected to assessment. Recent advances in both computer technology and observational techniques have made this combination much more realizable. So designed, computer-based simulation models, backed by targeted validation and input-data observations, represent a powerful tool for a common assessment language between the science and policy sectors of our society. Spatial resolution is available using virtual components representing the specific dynamics of various areas of the modelled domain, or by direct coupling with gridded spatial models. Likewise, advances in in-situ sensors for monitoring environmental parameters have greatly enhanced the ability to measure at time scales more appropriate to the biological or to the event time scales. The entire activity is intended primarily for scientists and graduate students working in the areas of Atmospheric Physics and Dynamics, Climatology, Oceanography, Physics and Mathematics. It is open to scientists from all member countries of the United Nations, UNESCO or IAEA. Although the main purpose of the Abdus Salam ICTP is to help researchers from developing countries through a programme based on international co-operation, students and post-doctoral scientists from developed countries are also welcome to attend. The activity will be conducted in English. _________________________________________________________ REQUEST FOR PARTICIPATION To be sent to: Abdus Salam ICTP Earth Systems Science Course in Watersheds & Coastal Zone Simulation Modeling Attn.: Lisa Iannitti Strada Costiera 11 34100 Trieste, Italy Earth Systems Science Course in Watersheds & Coastal Zone Simulation Modeling 2 - 13 October 2000 Miramare, Trieste, Italy Please attach a recent photograph to this form ________________________________________________________ SURNAME/FAMILY Name: MAIDEN Name: First name Middle name(s) Sex: For women only (if applicable) ________________________________________________________ IMPORTANT: PLEASE ALSO COMPLETE THIS SECTION, IF YOUR NAME(S) ON YOUR PASSPORT ARE SPELT DIFFERENTLY FROM THE ABOVE. 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