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Interventions and Calibration

Nimalan Arinaminpathy

This course covers approaches for modelling treatment of infectious disease, as well as for modelling vaccination. Building on the SIR model, you will learn how to incorporate additional compartments to represent the effects of interventions, such the effect of vaccination in reducing susceptibility. You will learn about ‘leaky’ vaccines and how to model them, as well as different types of vaccine and treatment effects. It is important to consider basic relationships between models and data, so, using the basic SIR model you have developed in course 1, you will calibrate this model to epidemic data. Performing such a calibration by hand will help you gain an understanding of how model parameters can be adjusted in order to capture real-world data. Lastly in this course, you will learn about two simple approaches to computer-based model calibration - the least-squares approach and the maximum-likelihood approach; you will perform model calibrations under each of these approaches in R.

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Syllabus

Modelling Interventions
Once you have captured the basic dynamics of transmission using simple mathematical models, it is possible to use these models to simulate the impact of different interventions. You will study approaches for modelling treatment of infectious disease, as well as for modelling vaccination. Building on the SIR model, you will learn how to incorporate additional compartments to represent the effects of interventions (for example, the effect of vaccination in reducing susceptibility). You will learn about ‘leaky’ vaccines and how to model them, as well as different types of vaccine and treatment effects.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches methods for modeling treatment of an infectious disease that are standard in the medical field
Develops models for characterizing the effects of vaccination in reducing susceptibility to infectious disease
Builds on the basic SIR model to incorporate real world dynamics, such as the effects of interventions
Instructs learners to calibrate a basic SIR model to fit real-world data
Covers the maximum likelihood and least squares approaches to calibrate compartmental models
Requires learners to have a base level of familiarity with compartmental modeling, which may be a barrier to entry for some

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Reviews summary

Modeling interventions and calibration in r

According to students, this course provides a solid foundation for applying mathematical modeling to public health challenges, particularly focusing on disease interventions and model calibration. Learners frequently commend the practical application of least-squares and maximum-likelihood methods in R, finding the content directly applicable to their work. While the course builds effectively on prior SIR model knowledge, students note that a strong background in R programming is a prerequisite, as the course does not teach R from scratch. Some reviewers mention uneven pacing or areas where R code could be better commented, though more recent feedback suggests general satisfaction with the hands-on exercises and instructor explanations. Opinions are divided on the overall balance between theory and practical application, with some seeking more immediate real-world skills.
Opinions vary on the course's theory-practice balance.
"The content is directly applicable to my work. The labs in R were especially helpful."
"The course is overly theoretical and doesn't provide enough practical skills for professionals."
"I came in hoping to gain applied skills, but it felt like a pure math course. Not practical enough."
"It's a good introduction but might need supplementary learning for real-world complexity."
Assumes prior knowledge of R, not a beginner's course.
"Prerequisites for R are a must; it doesn't teach R from scratch."
"Not for beginners to R or modeling. I needed a strong R background coming in."
"I already had a good background in R and basic SIR, which made this a perfect next step."
Learn to calibrate models using real-world data and R.
"The deep dive into least-squares and maximum-likelihood calibration in R was incredibly valuable."
"The ability to simulate interventions and calibrate models to real-world data is crucial."
"The calibration exercises are incredibly insightful. I found the content directly applicable to my work."
Mixed feedback on course pacing and clarity of concepts.
"The instructor explanations were clear and concise, making complex topics accessible."
"I felt the pacing felt a bit uneven, with some modules being very fast and others very drawn out."
"The explanation of calibration methods felt rushed, especially for the maximum-likelihood approach."
Some concerns about R code clarity and direct support.
"I felt the R code provided could have been better commented or more modular."
"The R assignments were difficult without clearer guidance, and the forum discussions were not very active."
"The R code was buggy and hard to follow, which was frustrating at times."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Interventions and Calibration with these activities:
Review basic statistics and calculus
Enhance your ability to follow the mathematical concepts and models covered in this course by reviewing basic statistics and calculus.
Browse courses on Statistics
Show steps
  • Review the concepts of probability and statistical inference.
  • Review the basics of differential and integral calculus.
Organize your course materials
Improve your ability to retrieve and review important course materials by organizing your notes, assignments, and other resources.
Show steps
  • Create a system for organizing your notes.
  • Create a system for organizing your assignments.
  • Create a system for organizing your other course resources.
Solve compartmental model problems
Solve practice problems involving compartmental models to solidify your understanding of the concepts taught in this course.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
  • Solve the problems step-by-step.
  • Check your answers against the provided solutions.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Review modeling techniques
Model the spread of an infectious disease to practice the modeling techniques and concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on Mathematical Modeling
Show steps
  • Start with a simple model, such as the SIR model.
  • Add more compartments and parameters to the model to make it more realistic.
  • Simulate the model under different conditions.
  • Analyze the results and compare them to real-world data.
Read Mathematical Models in Epidemiology
Supplement your understanding of the course material by reading this book to reinforce and expand your knowledge on mathematical modeling in epidemiology.
View Mathematical Models in Epidemiology (Texts in... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the introduction and first chapter.
  • Focus on the chapters that cover the topics you are most interested in.
  • Take notes and summarize the key points.
Lead a study group on compartmental modeling
Reinforce your understanding of compartmental modeling by leading a study group and helping others learn the concepts.
Show steps
  • Gather a group of students who are interested in learning about compartmental modeling.
  • Plan the topics you will cover in the study group.
  • Lead the study group discussions.

Career center

Learners who complete Interventions and Calibration will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the distribution and patterns of health events and diseases in a population. Individuals in this role work to understand the causes of disease and other health problems in order to develop and implement public health interventions. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Epidemiologists build a foundation in mathematical modeling of infectious disease transmission, which is essential for understanding the impact of public health interventions. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians apply statistical methods to solve problems in the field of biology, including public health. They use their knowledge of statistical methods and software to design studies, collect and analyze data, and interpret results. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Biostatisticians develop skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, which are essential for designing and conducting public health studies. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician
Public Health Scientist
Public Health Scientists conduct research to improve the health of populations. They work on a variety of topics, including infectious disease control, chronic disease prevention, and environmental health. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Public Health Scientists develop skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, which are essential for conducting public health research. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use their knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and computer science to extract insights from data. They work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Data Scientists develop skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, which are essential for working with large datasets. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Health Economist
Health Economists use economic principles to analyze the costs and benefits of health care interventions. They work in a variety of settings, including government, academia, and the private sector. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Health Economists develop skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, which are essential for evaluating the cost-effectiveness of health care interventions. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Economist
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical models to solve problems in a variety of industries, including healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. They work to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and make better decisions. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Operations Research Analysts develop skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, which are essential for developing and implementing operations research solutions. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analysts collect and analyze data to understand consumer behavior. They work in a variety of industries, including marketing, advertising, and product development. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Market Research Analysts develop skills in data analysis and interpretation, which are essential for understanding consumer behavior. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use financial data to make investment recommendations. They work in a variety of settings, including investment banks, hedge funds, and asset management companies. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Financial Analysts develop skills in data analysis and interpretation, which are essential for understanding financial data. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical models to assess risk. They work in a variety of industries, including insurance, finance, and healthcare. The Interventions and Calibration course can help Actuaries develop skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, which are essential for assessing risk. Additionally, the course covers approaches for model calibration, which is crucial for ensuring that model-simulated dynamics are consistent with real-world data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. The Interventions and Calibration course may be useful for Software Engineers who are interested in developing software applications for public health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, marketing, and education. The Interventions and Calibration course may be useful for Web Developers who are interested in developing websites for public health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. The Interventions and Calibration course may be useful for Graphic Designers who are interested in creating visual materials for public health campaigns.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic Designer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documentation. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. The Interventions and Calibration course may be useful for Technical Writers who are interested in writing documentation for public health applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to a general audience. They work in a variety of settings, including magazines, newspapers, and websites. The Interventions and Calibration course may be useful for Science Writers who are interested in writing about public health topics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations. They work in a variety of industries, including government, non-profit, and corporate. The Interventions and Calibration course may be useful for Public Relations Specialists who are interested in working on public health campaigns.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Interventions and Calibration.
Cover image
Mathematical Biology II
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the mathematical modeling of infectious diseases, covering topics such as transmission dynamics, stability analysis, and optimal control. Though more mathematically rigorous, it would be a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the mathematical foundations of epidemiological modeling.
Mathematical Biology II
Paperback
Check
Mathematical Biology II
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Physical Activity Epidemiology
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of statistical methods used in epidemiology, including methods for data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Provides a good foundation for understanding the context of the interventions and models discussed in the course.
Physical Activity Epidemiology
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Plotkin's Vaccines
Save
This comprehensive textbook provides an in-depth overview of vaccines, including their history, development, mechanisms of action, and public health impact. It would be an excellent resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the role of vaccines in preventing and controlling infectious diseases.
Plotkin's Vaccines (Vaccines (Plotkin))
Hardcover
$$$$
Plotkin's Vaccines (Vaccines (Plotkin))
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Epidemiology for Public Health Practice
Save
Covers the basic principles of epidemiology, including methods for data collection and analysis, as well as the application of epidemiological concepts to public health practice. Provides a good foundation for understanding the context of the interventions and models discussed in the course.
Epidemiology for Public Health Practice
Paperback
$$$
Epidemiology for Public Health Practice: Includes...
Paperback
$$
Epidemiology for Public Health Practice (Friis,...
Paperback
$$
Epidemiology for Public Health Practice
Paperback
$
Epidemiology for Public Health Practice
Kindle Edition
$$$
Out of Print: Epidemiology for Public Health...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Research Methods in Occupational Epidemiology
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of statistical methods used in disease surveillance, which is essential for understanding the calibration and validation of models.
Research Methods in Occupational Epidemiology...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Multiple Imputation and its Application
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of data analysis methods used in epidemiology, including descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis. It would be a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the statistical techniques used in epidemiological modeling.
Multiple Imputation and its Application (Statistics...
Hardcover
$$$
Multiple Imputation and its Application (Statistics...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
A Practical Guide to Data Analysis Using R
Save
Provides an introduction to Bayesian data analysis methods for epidemiologists. It would be a useful resource for those seeking to apply Bayesian techniques to epidemiological data.
A Practical Guide to Data Analysis Using R
Paperback
Check
A Practical Guide to Data Analysis Using R
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
24 hours to complete
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Imperial College London
Instructor
Nimalan Arinaminpathy
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Infectious Disease Modelling. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Interventions and Calibration (viewing)
  2. Building on the SIR Model
  3. Developing the SIR Model
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches methods for modeling treatment of an infectious disease that are standard in the medical field
Develops models for characterizing the effects of vaccination in reducing susceptibility to infectious disease
Builds on the basic SIR model to incorporate real world dynamics, such as the effects of interventions
Instructs learners to calibrate a basic SIR model to fit real-world data
Covers the maximum likelihood and least squares approaches to calibrate compartmental models
Requires learners to have a base level of familiarity with compartmental modeling, which may be a barrier to entry for some
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