What you will learn

• Distinguish between stochastic and deterministic models, explain when either are appropriate, and perform simple simulations of a stochastic model

• Identify where it is important to incorporate population structure in a model and design and simulate a transmission model capturing such structure 

• Evaluate the assumptions behind the Ross MacDonald model, and code such a model using R to simulate the dynamics of a vector-borne disease 

• Critically evaluate a modelling study and communicate its strengths and weaknesses to a scientifically literate audience