Monsters, microbiology and mathematics: the epidemiology of a zombie apocalypse

Verran, J., Crossley, M., Carolan, K., Jacobs, N. and Amos, Martyn (2014) Monsters, microbiology and mathematics: the epidemiology of a zombie apocalypse. Journal of Biological Education, 48 (2). pp. 98-104. ISSN 0021-9266

Full text not available from this repository.
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00219266.2013.849283

Abstract

The aim of this learning exercise was to harness current interest in zombies in order to educate audiences about the epidemiology of infectious disease. Participants in the activity were provided with an outbreak scenario, which they then used as the basis of play-based activities. By considering the mode and speed of transmission, size of outbreak and prevention/control strategy, participant groups were able to define parameters of their outbreak scenario. These were then input to SimZombie, a computer simulation program developed by the authors, which visually demonstrated the spread of infection through a population. The resulting animations were then used as the basis of in-depth discussion which, in turn, enabled the consideration of principles of disease transmission and control strategies. The activity provided an opportunity to engage a range of audiences through a variety of different delivery mechanisms, including role play, workshops and informal drop-in. Learning was evidenced by participation and feedback.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: epidemiology, mathematical modelling, zombies
Subjects: C900 Others in Biological Sciences
G400 Computer Science
X900 Others in Education
Department: Faculties > Engineering and Environment > Computer and Information Sciences
Depositing User: Becky Skoyles
Date Deposited: 19 Feb 2019 16:00
Last Modified: 10 Oct 2019 23:31
URI: http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/38121

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