AN INTRODUCTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF CONCEPTUAL MODELS

Format Requirements: The course will focus on the practical aspects of the development of conceptual models using a series of case studies -- short practical exercises will be included. No prior experience is required.

The course will explore the practicalities of developing and using conceptual models as an aid to decision-making at various stages of the technology developmen.

The course will help participants to:

* Use graphical tools, such as influence diagrams, directed acyclic graphs, state transition diagrams and decision trees

* Appreciate the need to use a clear 'visual language' when developing conceptual models

* Consider different viewpoints (e.g. decision problem, service framework, disease pathway, causal pathway, and quantitative model design)

* Elucidate the temporal and causal relationships between measured variables.

* Develop models that facilitate collaboration between collaborators with diverse backgrounds, increase decision-makers confidence in decision models, and improve study and development program design