This course is designed for those who are already familiar with the VDDT software – either through the Introduction to VDDT course, or through previous hands-on experience with VDDT – and who wish to extend their understanding in order to develop richer VDDT models. It assumes a basic understanding of how to build and run simple models in VDDT (e.g. defining model parameters, editing transition pathways and probabilities, running models and examining output).

Participants are expected to bring their own computer (running Windows 2000 or higher) for the VDDT training sessions – if this is not possible, please contact the training coordinator to make alternate arrangements.

• Ability to use the advanced features in VDDT: setting age constraints on transitions, setting area limits on disturbances, tracking multiple time-since-disturbance effects, modeling temporal variation in disturbances, tracking state class attributes, and using area limits.
• Ability to import and export model parameters and detailed results.
• Understanding of how to undertake sensitivity analyses of model input parameters.
• Understanding of how to translate data and knowledge into a VDDT model for an entire landscape.

• Setting age constraints and area limits for transitions.
• Tracking multiple time-since-disturbance effects on transitions.
• Modeling temporal and trend variability in disturbance probabilities.
• Tracking and setting limits for state class attributes (e.g. volume).
• Working with detailed model output.
• Sensitivity analysis of model parameters.
• Case study: developing a VDDT model from scratch for an entire landscape, incorporating advanced features presented during the course.

Registrations are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend that you register at least one month prior to the date your class begins.
Course registration form [PDF]