What is a computer model/simulation?
Simulations aim to mimic real life systems in order to see outcomes of different scenarios. Computer simulations can be made as range of situations. For example, flight simulation, traffic light simulations, finance simulations etc,.
Advantages of using computer models/simulations
CHEAPER: much cheaper to carry out the tasks than in the real life and if the design makes an error, you don’t waste money
SAFER: no risks even if pilots practice on dangerous environment
SAVES TIME: can produce results of something faster than real life
GREATER RANGE OF SITUATIONS: can run range of extreme situation
Disadvantages of using computer models/simulations
ACCURACY: simulations can’t be perfectly same as the real life because situation always changes
INITIAL EXPENSES: expensive to buy the software and hardware of simulator
PROGRAMMER ERROR: if the simulation’s programmer has made errors while he/she is programming, the outcome will be more inaccurate
Examples of computer models/simulations
Flight simulator
This mimic the skills needed to pilot for a real aircraft. There are two types of simulator:
- PC/Laptop simulations design to be able to be used at home
- Replica cockpit simulations which are large and more expensive, but more like real situation
The simulations are designed for pilot to practice:
- Use of cockpit control
- Takeoff/land
- Navigation
- Experience and navigate in different environments
Finance simulation
Spreadsheet can be used for simulating finance outcomes and mathematical values. Such as:
- Profit/loss
- Over budget/within budget
- Answers ‘What If”
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