Model validation
Before a model can be used to inform policy decisions or for science, we need to know how good it is.
Does it reproduce patterns seen in nature?
Can we trust it?
Will it be able to make reliable predictions?
Is it a valid model of the system that we are investigating?
Model validation is the process that answers these questions by demonstrating how closely the model reproduces the natural behaviour of the ocean. Model validation is important because it tells us about not just the quality of the model, but also the limitations of the model. This allows us to judge how useful the model can be to address scientific, policy and management questions. Validation is also an important part of model development because it lets us know if changes to the model improve, degrade or have no effect on the model.
Further information
Please contact: Lee de Mora
Related projects
Integrated Global Biogeochemical Modelling Network to support UK Earth System Research (iMarNet)
UK Earth System model (UKESM)
Related publications
- de Mora L, Butenschön M and Allen JI. 2016. The assessment of a global marine ecosystem model on the basis of emergent properties and ecosystem function: a case study with ERSEM, Geosci. Model Dev., 9, 59-76, doi:10.5194/gmd-9-59-2016
- de Mora L, Butenschön M and Allen JI. 2013. How should sparse marine in situ measurements be compared to a continuous model: an example, Geosci. Model Dev., 6, 533-548, doi:10.5194/gmd-6-533-2013