Model This

General Event Information
Model This is a National trial technology/computer event that runs along the basics of Compute This. Teams are presented with a problem that requires modifying or creating a computer model that will represent the scenario presented. Short answer questions related to the problem are also included.

Event Parameters
Blank tablet paper and writing instruments may be used but are not required. More importantly, teams may create their own non-password protected websites to organize URL's and other information.

Example Problem
The recent outbreak of the swine flu virus has exposed several weaknesses in the world’s ability to respond to the sudden emergence of a widespread illness. Computer models can be used to test prevention and treatment strategies with normal and at-risk populations. For background information about the swine flu, see http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/i/influenza/swine_influenza/index.html), http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/11/health/11docs.html?_r=1, http://flutracker.rhizalabs.com/, and http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090511151620.htm. Prior to the competition, students should download NetLogo from http://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/. The NetLogo Models Library has a variety of disease models that will help the students prepare for the competition.

Event Resources
See Compute This.