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Martin Hilbert
Big data and artificial intelligence get most of the press about computational social science, but maybe the most complex aspect of it refers to using computational tools to explore and develop social science theory. This course shows how computer simulations are being used to explore the realm of what is theoretically possible. Computer simulations allow us to study why societies are the way they are, and to dream about the world we would like to live in. This can be as intuitive as playing a video game. Much like the well-known video game SimCity is used to build and manage an artificial city, we use agent-based models to grow and study artificial societies. Without hurting anyone in the real world, computer simulations allow us explore how to make the world a better place. We play hands-on with several practical computer simulation models and explore how we can combine hypothetical models with real world data. Finally, you will program a simple artificial society yourself, bottom-up. This will allow you to feel the complexity that arises when designing social systems, while at the same time experiencing the ease with which our new computational tools allow us to pursue such daunting endeavors.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Getting Started and Computer Simulations
In this module, you will be able to define theoretical computer simulations, specifically agent-based models (ABM). You will be able to recall how and why agent-based models can be useful and you'll be able to examine Schelling's famous segregation model.
Read more
Syllabus
Getting Started and Computer Simulations
In this module, you will be able to define theoretical computer simulations, specifically agent-based models (ABM). You will be able to recall how and why agent-based models can be useful and you'll be able to examine Schelling's famous segregation model.
Read more
Artificial Societies: Sugarscape
In this module, you will be able to identify how to mix different models to create new and more complex models. You will be able to explore how to create sophisticated versions of artificial societies. You'll also be able to examine an artificial society called Sugarscape.
Computer Simulations and Characteristics of ABM
In this module, you will be able to discover how one uses computer simulations to solve practical problems. You will be able to discuss agent-based models (ABM) and identify how ABM can be used in social science.
Model Thinking and Coding Artificial Societies
In this module, you will be able to describe what agent-based models are. You will be able to identify their capabilities and limitations. You will be able to define and use vocabulary and terminology around model thinking. You'll also be able to code using NetLogo and be able to grow your own artificial society.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops a computational approach to the study of social science
Teaches hands-on practical skills through hands-on computer simulation
Well-presented by Martin Hilbert
Shows how computer simulations can be used to explore why societies are the way they are
Provides access to resources for further learning and research
Useful for anyone interested in social science and computational simulations
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Reviews summary
Computer simulations: abm and netlogo
According to learners, this engaging course teaches fundamental concepts in Computer Simulations with a focus on ABM and NetLogo. Students say the course is well-structured, informative, and provides hands-on experience with NetLogo. The course includes readings, lectures, quizzes, and homework assignments. With a focus on the benefits and drawbacks of Computer Simulations, this course is highly recommended for beginners and those working in Data Science or Social Sciences.
Emphasis on Agent-Based Modeling
"Very useful course for learning basics of ABM and NetLogo programming."
Suitable for newcomers to Computer Simulations
"very informative and beginner friendly"
"Highly recommended for beginners"
Easy-to-understand explanations
"Excellent course. A complex topic explained simply."
"Very good course with great explanations."
"Lovely explanatory course on Computer Simulations"
Interactive learning with NetLogo
"That was a great class. I really enjoyed the hand-on NetLogo work."
"Just To learn to program in Netlogo, worth all the invest of time and effort."
"The exposure to computer science, coding, and data analytics I needed to propel me forward."
Occasional issues with video content
"However, there are a couple videos and content that need to be edited and re-published, which makes some of the content hard to follow."
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 Computer Simulations with these
activities:
Review basic programming concepts
Show steps
Prepare for the course by brushing up on essential programming concepts.
Browse courses on
Programming Basics
Show steps
-
Review loops, conditionals, and data types in Python
Read introductory articles on computational social science
Show steps
Gain a basic understanding of the field before the course starts.
Browse courses on
Computational Social Science
Show steps
-
Read articles from reputable sources on computational social science
Explore the NetLogo Resources Hub
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the NetLogo environment and community resources ahead of using it in the course.
Browse courses on
NetLogo
Show steps
-
Visit the NetLogo Resources Hub and explore the tutorials
-
Complete a NetLogo tutorial on model design and simulation
-
Join the NetLogo discussion forum and ask questions
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Review key concepts from 'Agent-Based Models of Social Systems' by Epstein and Axtell
Show steps
Reinforce fundamental concepts of agent-based modeling and social system simulations by reviewing a seminal work in the field.
View
Growing Artificial Societies: Social Science...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Identify key concepts of agent-based modeling from Chapter 1
-
Summarize the methodology for designing agent-based models in Chapter 2
-
Read and make notes on Chapter 3 on the application of agent-based models to social systems
-
Prepare a short presentation outlining the main takeaways from the book
Organize and review notes, assignments, and materials
Show steps
Improve retention by actively reviewing and organizing course materials.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
-
Implement a system for note-taking and assignment tracking
-
Review notes and summarize key concepts regularly
Attend online or offline events related to computational social science
Show steps
Connect with peers, practitioners, and researchers in the field to broaden your perspective.
Browse courses on
Computational Social Science
Show steps
-
Search for and identify relevant events
-
Attend events and actively participate in discussions
Build a basic Schelling segregation model in NetLogo
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of agent-based modeling and simulate a well-known social phenomenon.
Show steps
-
Set up a grid world using the NetLogo 'patches' primitive
-
Create and add agents to the world
-
Define rules for agent movement and interaction
-
Run simulations and record results
Develop a final project proposal for an agent-based modeling project
Show steps
Plan and prepare for your final project by outlining your research question and methodology.
Browse courses on
Agent-Based Modeling
Show steps
-
Identify a research question and topic for your project
-
Develop a conceptual model for your artificial society
-
Design the NetLogo model for your simulation
-
Plan data collection and analysis methods
Design and implement an artificial society in NetLogo
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of social systems and computational modeling by creating a custom artificial society.
Browse courses on
Agent-Based Modeling
Show steps
-
Identify the research question or social phenomenon to be simulated
-
Design the agents and environment for your artificial society
-
Implement a NetLogo model to simulate your society
-
Run simulations, collect data, and analyze results
-
Present your model and findings to the class
Review basic programming concepts
Show steps
Prepare for the course by brushing up on essential programming concepts.
Browse courses on
Programming Basics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review loops, conditionals, and data types in Python
Read introductory articles on computational social science
Show steps
Gain a basic understanding of the field before the course starts.
Browse courses on
Computational Social Science
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read articles from reputable sources on computational social science
Explore the NetLogo Resources Hub
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the NetLogo environment and community resources ahead of using it in the course.
Browse courses on
NetLogo
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the NetLogo Resources Hub and explore the tutorials
- Complete a NetLogo tutorial on model design and simulation
- Join the NetLogo discussion forum and ask questions
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Review key concepts from 'Agent-Based Models of Social Systems' by Epstein and Axtell
Show steps
Reinforce fundamental concepts of agent-based modeling and social system simulations by reviewing a seminal work in the field.
View
Growing Artificial Societies: Social Science...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify key concepts of agent-based modeling from Chapter 1
- Summarize the methodology for designing agent-based models in Chapter 2
- Read and make notes on Chapter 3 on the application of agent-based models to social systems
- Prepare a short presentation outlining the main takeaways from the book
Organize and review notes, assignments, and materials
Show steps
Improve retention by actively reviewing and organizing course materials.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Implement a system for note-taking and assignment tracking
- Review notes and summarize key concepts regularly
Attend online or offline events related to computational social science
Show steps
Connect with peers, practitioners, and researchers in the field to broaden your perspective.
Browse courses on
Computational Social Science
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for and identify relevant events
- Attend events and actively participate in discussions
Build a basic Schelling segregation model in NetLogo
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of agent-based modeling and simulate a well-known social phenomenon.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set up a grid world using the NetLogo 'patches' primitive
- Create and add agents to the world
- Define rules for agent movement and interaction
- Run simulations and record results
Develop a final project proposal for an agent-based modeling project
Show steps
Plan and prepare for your final project by outlining your research question and methodology.
Browse courses on
Agent-Based Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a research question and topic for your project
- Develop a conceptual model for your artificial society
- Design the NetLogo model for your simulation
- Plan data collection and analysis methods
Design and implement an artificial society in NetLogo
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of social systems and computational modeling by creating a custom artificial society.
Browse courses on
Agent-Based Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the research question or social phenomenon to be simulated
- Design the agents and environment for your artificial society
- Implement a NetLogo model to simulate your society
- Run simulations, collect data, and analyze results
- Present your model and findings to the class
Career center
Learners who complete Computer Simulations will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data scientists are the professionals who use complex data to solve problems. They are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data in order to provide insights that can help businesses make better decisions. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Data Scientist, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of business problems, such as understanding customer behavior, predicting market trends, and developing new products and services.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Operations research analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve problems in a variety of industries. They work with businesses to improve efficiency, productivity, and decision-making. This course may help build a foundation for success as an Operations Research Analyst, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of business problems.
Statistician
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses and organizations make better decisions. They work with a variety of data sources to identify trends, patterns, and insights. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Statistician, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of statistical problems, such as understanding customer behavior, predicting market trends, and developing new products and services.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make better decisions. They work with a variety of data sources to identify trends, patterns, and insights. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Data Analyst, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of data analysis problems, such as understanding customer behavior, predicting market trends, and developing new products and services.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts use financial data to evaluate and make recommendations on investments. They work with individuals, businesses, and institutions to help them make informed decisions about their financial portfolios. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Financial Analyst, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of financial analysis problems, such as evaluating investment opportunities, making recommendations on investment strategies, and developing financial plans.
Actuary
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty. They work with insurance companies, banks, and other financial institutions to help them make decisions about risk management, pricing, and financial planning. This course may help build a foundation for success as an Actuary, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of actuarial problems, such as understanding risk, pricing insurance policies, and developing financial plans.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists study human behavior and mental processes. They work with a variety of organizations to help them understand and address psychological problems. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Psychologist, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of psychological problems, such as understanding mental illness, addiction, and child development.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They work with governments, businesses, and other organizations to help them make informed decisions about economic policy. This course may help build a foundation for success as an Economist, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of economic problems, such as understanding economic growth, inflation, and unemployment.
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts study market trends and customer behavior to help businesses make informed decisions about their products and services. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Market Research Analyst, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of market research problems, such as understanding customer needs, developing new products and services, and pricing products.
Investment Analyst
Investment Analyst
Investment analysts use financial data to evaluate and make recommendations on investments. They work with individuals, businesses, and institutions to help them make informed decisions about their financial portfolios. This course may help build a foundation for success as an Investment Analyst, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of investment analysis problems, such as evaluating investment opportunities, making recommendations on investment strategies, and developing financial plans.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Manager
Social media managers are responsible for developing and implementing social media strategies for businesses. They work with a variety of social media platforms to create and share content, engage with customers, and track results. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Social Media Manager, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of social media marketing problems, such as understanding customer behavior, developing effective content, and tracking results.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and social behavior. They work with a variety of organizations to help them understand and address social problems. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Sociologist, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of sociological problems, such as understanding crime, poverty, and inequality.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political scientists study politics and government. They work with a variety of organizations to help them understand and address political problems. This course may help build a foundation for success as a Political Scientist, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of political science problems, such as understanding political institutions, elections, and public policy.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human cultures and societies. They work with a variety of organizations to help them understand and address social problems. This course may help build a foundation for success as an Anthropologist, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of anthropological problems, such as understanding cultural diversity, social change, and globalization.
User Experience Researcher
User Experience Researcher
User experience researchers study how users interact with products and services. They work with businesses to improve the user experience and make products more user-friendly. This course may help build a foundation for success as a User Experience Researcher, as it will teach you how to use computer simulations to explore and develop social science theory. This knowledge can be applied to a wide range of user experience research problems, such as understanding user needs, developing user-friendly products, and testing products with users.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/4zu1co/computer
Reading list
We've selected nine 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
Computer Simulations.
Offers a comprehensive introduction to agent-based computational social science, providing a theoretical framework as well as a range of practical applications. It would provide essential background knowledge for this course.
Save
Offers a critical examination of social simulation, discussing its history, methodologies, and limitations, helping learners to develop a well-rounded understanding of the field.
Save
An accessible introduction to the concept of emergence, providing examples from various fields including biology and computer science, which can help learners understand the emergence of social phenomena in simulations.
Explores the use of computer models to simulate and understand complex systems, including social systems. It would provide valuable insights into the principles and techniques used in this course.
Save
An accessible introduction to the concept of tipping points and their relevance to social phenomena, providing insights applicable to understanding the dynamics of artificial societies.
Offers a comprehensive introduction to multi-agent systems, which can help learners understand the underlying principles of agent-based social simulations.
Examines the use of artificial societies and social simulation to explore social phenomena. It would provide a complementary perspective on the topics covered in this course.
A classic work in social theory that provides a framework for understanding collective behavior and its implications for social simulations.
This seminal paper introduces Schelling's famous segregation model, which is discussed in this course. It would provide a valuable historical perspective.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/4zu1co/computer
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Effort
5 weeks of study, 2-5 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
Martin Hilbert
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Computational Social Science. It's comprised of five courses:
Good to know
Develops a computational approach to the study of social science
Teaches hands-on practical skills through hands-on computer simulation
Well-presented by Martin Hilbert
Shows how computer simulations can be used to explore why societies are the way they are
Provides access to resources for further learning and research
Useful for anyone interested in social science and computational simulations
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