Decision Models and Financial Analysis in Occupational Therapy Practice

Catalog description

This course introduces the basic principles and techniques of applied mathematical modeling for managerial decision making. Students learn to use some of the more important analytic methods (e.g., spreadsheet modeling, optimization, Monte Carlo simulation) to recognize their assumptions and limitations and to employ them in decision making. Students learn to: develop mathematical models that can be used to improve decision making within an organization, sharpen their ability to structure problems and to perform logical analyses, translate descriptions of decision problems into formal models and investigate those models in an organized fashion, identify settings in which models can be used effectively, and apply modeling concepts in practical situations. Students also strengthen their computer skills, focusing on how to use the computer to support decision making. The emphasis is on model formulation and interpretation of results, not on mathematical theory. This course is aimed at students with little prior exposure to modeling and quantitative analysis, but it is appropriate for all students who wish to strengthen their quantitative skills. The emphasis is on models that are widely used in diverse industries and functional areas, including finance, operations, and marketing.