Agent-Based Modelling in NetLogo (ABM-NetLogo)

Overview

Agent-Based Modelling (ABM) involves specifying the behaviour of individual agents as computer programs and analysing the emergent outcomes of their interactions through simulation. Hence ABM’s do not require a macro theory of a system in order to model it. ABM is a tool used increasingly in physics, biology, computer science, social science and economics.

In this course we will introduce students to the craft of ABM through practical lab work. We will look at some seminal agent-based models in NetLogo and experiment with them.

Students will be expected to bring a critical eye to the work and also present, discuss and implement their own ideas and interests. Each student will produce and present their own ABM in NetLogo, and experimental results, by the end of the course.

NetLogo is a programming language specifically designed for teaching, specifying and experimenting with ABM’s. It is popular over many disciplines for representing and communicating ABM’s. We will introduce this language through example models in the Lab.

Labs will comprise the presentation of a models, tasks and feedback of the results obtained. Students will be able to work at their own pace and on their own projects during the labs.

Prerequisites: Students are not required to have previous programming experience. However those new to programming should be willing to pursue their own efforts in terms of learning NetLogo details through available online resources including the integrated manual and tutorials. The course will be taught entirely in English.

Assessment: Students will develop their own ABM in NetLogo producing experiments and analysis. PhD students will additionally write-up their results in the format of a short technical report. Help will be given during latter lab sessions to complete these tasks.

Aims (the course aims to):
Objectives (by the end of the course students will be able to):