Module information: Adaptive Systems [24/25]
Module information
Introduction
Convenor's welcome
Module Outline
In the Cybernetic tradition,this module covers the principles of adaptivity as evidenced in various artificial and natural systems.Adaptive Systems is an interdisciplinary programme of research into systems which adapt themselves,spanning multiple sciences and branches of engineering. This is a relatively young field,and there is still much debate over its theory and philosophy.Students are strongly encouraged to enter into that debate,in classes and in coursework assignments.Throughout the module,we will study and discuss issues including the processes of self-adaptation,why they are required and beneficial,and which systems we can properly call adaptive.
Central lecture and discussion topics include Cybernetics and its many offshoots,homeostatic adaptation,self-organising systems and active inference.For each topic,we will look at relevant examples of both natural and artificial instantiations.
We wil follow Richard Feynman's maxim:"What I cannot create I do not understand",and your understanding and theories of adaptivity will be demonstrated and tested in simulated adaptive systems of your own making.To prepare you for that task,you will be taught the fundamentals of simulating adaptive systems in a series of six lab casses.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this module a successful student should be able to:
·Provide,explain and justify definitions of adaptivity and adaptive systems
·Simulate homeostatic and agent-based systems
·Demonstrate an understanding of specific adaptive systems and mechanisms by modelling and simulating them,analysing simulation results,and critical discussion of their implications and significance
Assessments overview
100%of the module grade will come from coursework.
There are two coursework assessments for this module.
The first is a 1000 word report,which is due in week 8 of this term.This assignment is worth 20% of the module mark.
The second is a 3000 word report,which is due in assessment period 2 week 1.This assignment is worth 80%of the module mark.
Please refer to Sussex Direct for your exact deadline dates.
For fullassessment briefs,including marking schemes and information on how you will receive your feedback,please refer to the Assessment and Feedback page
(https://canvas.sussex.ac.uk/courses/31028/pages/assessments-and-feedback-2).