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Optimization methods for land use problems
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:29:47
Objective
Understand conceptualization and model formulation as a basis for problem solving. Get to know conventional and heuristic optimization techniques. Analyze land use optimization problems based on original research papers. Ex-periment with optimization techniques by solving real-world case studies.
Content
The course has three aspects. The first is to become familiar with optimization techniques to solve problems of land use. Second, the students will analyze specific topics documented in original research papers critically. Third, stu-dents will develop skills in handling optimization tools and in implementing heuristic algorithms with a programming environment of their choice. Problem analysis, conceptualization and model formulation, objective function concepts, mathematical problem formulation, tools to solve linear programs (EXCEL Solver, AMPL, etc.). Heuristic search methods (Simulated An-nealing, Tabu Search, Genetic Algorithms). Working on case studies and on a project.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes will be handed out. Detailed contents will be adapted to student's requirements. Students and instructors will document the course content on a Wiki.
Literature
Recommended supplementary textbooks - BRONSON, R. and G. NAADIMUTHU, 1997: Theory and Problems of Operations Research, 2nd Ed. Schaums Outline Series. New York, etc.: McGraw-Hill. 455 p. - REEVES, C.R. and OPERATIONAL RESEARCH SOCIETY (Great Britain), 1993: Modern heuristic techniques or combinatorial problems. Oxford [etc.]: Blackwell. 320 pp.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- ungraded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Optimization methods for land use problems |
|
2 h weekly |