The validation of a simulation model is a crucial task in model development. It involves the comparison of simulation data to observation data and the identification of suitable model parameters. SLIVISU is a Visual Analytics framework that enables geoscientists to perform these tasks for observation data that is sparse and uncertain. Primarily, SLIVISU was designed to evaluate sea level indicators, which are geological or archaeological samples supporting the reconstruction of former sea level over the last ten thousands of years and are compiled in a postgreSQL database system. At the same time, the software aims at supporting the validation of numerical sea-level reconstructions against this data by means of visual analytics.
Uncertainties in scientific knowledge are often identified with ignorance. In complex systems, however, irreducible uncertainties are essential elements of system dynamics. The project aims at developing modeling tools that express essential elements of the dynamics of climate and ecosystems leaading to uncertainties. Such modelling tools are required to convey the importance and meaning of irreducible uncertainties. Model versions tuned to the specific requirements of an interactive use by laypersons will be developed. Such models will be simple in structure and comprise only the essential elements that are required to reproduce certain dynamic phenomena. Correspondingly, thes models will contrast with the rather elaborate models that are developed within the various projects of CLEAR. The model construction will proceed from the identification of keq phenomena in close collaboration with other projects, via the development of appropriate mathematical models that give a qualitative aggreement with the more sophisticated models and emirical data, to the establishment of appropriate user interfaces. Special emphasis will be put on the transparent representation of uncertainties inherent in the modelling process thus allowing an informed judgement by the user. The experience gained will lead to an improved understanding for irreducible uncertainties inherent in the behaviour of complex dynamic systems. This is an essential requirement for an appropriate integration and valuation of scientific knowledge in a process of integrated assessment in the field of climate change in particular and in the field of environmental research in general. Due to its being located at the interface between natural and social sciences the project will make an important contribution to improve the collaboration across disciplinary boundaries. Leading Questions: What are important sources of uncertainty in assessing impacts of regional climate change? Can simulation models serve as communication tools as the interface between science and society to convey implications of complexity?
Das Ziel des Projektes ist die Entwicklung eines Stofftransportmodells(speziell Bodenerosion), um Schutzmaßnahmen in einem Einzugsgebiet evaluieren und ihre Auswirkungen im Hinblick auf einen nachhaltigen Schutz der Ressourcen Wasser und Boden abschätzen zu können. An hand von räumlich und zeitlich verteilten Messdaten über Oberflächenabfluss, Bodenabtrag, Bodenwassergehalt, Landnutzung etc. in einem rund 40 ha großen Einzugsgebiet wird das Entscheidungsunterstützungsmodell validiert und danach auf ein etwa 10 km' großes Gebiet übertragen.