Often, uncertainty is modelled by a probability distribution, and treated using techniques from probability theory. However, when information is scarce, vague, or conflicting, a unique probability distribution may be hard to identify. In that case, imprecise probability aims to represent the really available knowledge, and provides tools to model and work with weaker states of information. It includes both qualitative models (comparative probability, partial preference orderings, etc.) and quantitative models (interval-valued probabilities, convex sets of probability measures, upper and lower previsions, belief functions, possibility measures, etc.).
The Society for Imprecise Probability: Theories and Applications, or SIPTA, aims at promoting research on imprecise probability. This is done through a series of activities including ISIPTA conferences every odd year since 1999, and SIPTA schools every even year since 2004.
The aim of SIPTA schools is to introduce interested students and researchers with the basics of imprecise probability topics, both theoretical and applied. Some of the best specialists in different aspects of imprecise probabilities lecture, during one week time, on the main concepts and techniques associated to their area of expertise, in a friendly environment favouring interaction between participants. An important part of the time is devoted to the resolution of proposed exercises involving applied problems.
The SIPTA school 2010 will take place in the Department of Mathematical Sciences, Durham University, United Kingdom.
On the final day of the school, the students will have the opportunity to present their own work, at the WPMSIIP workshop.
