Teaching heart modeling and simulation on parallel computing systems

Abstract

High Performance Computing (HPC) is an interdisciplinary field of study, which requires learning a number of topics, including not only parallel programming, but also numerical methods and domain science. Stand-alone parallel computing courses are insufficient for thorough HPC education. We present an interdisciplinary track of coherent courses devoted to modeling and simulation of the heart on parallel computing systems for master students at the Ural Federal University. The track consists of three modules: parallel and distributed computing, heart modeling, and numerical methods. Knowledge of numerical methods and heart modeling provides the students with the ability to acquire profound parallel programming skills by working out on the comprehensive programming assignment and complex heart modeling projects. Interdisciplinary approach also increases students’ motivation and involvement.