IB Computer Science: Modelling & Simulation Revision

Modelling & Simulation is a core part of IB Computer Science. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

Monte CarloRandom sampling to estimate quantities.

Convergence rateError shrinks as 1/√N for N samples.

Agent-basedMany simple agents with local rules.

EmergenceGlobal pattern arising from local interaction.

Random seedStarting value of pseudo-random generator.

ReproducibilitySame seed reproduces simulation runs.

VerificationChecks that the model correctly implements its design or specification.

ValidationDoes the model match the real world?

SensitivityHow outputs change with input variation.

Climate modelSimulates atmosphere and ocean systems.

Epidemic modelCompartments S, I, R for disease spread.

CalibrationTuning parameters to fit observed data.

ModelSimplified representation of a system.

SimulationExecuting a model over time.

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