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Blocks-based ABM with NetTango

Programming and complexity thinking are key skills for approaching 21st century challenges. NetTango Builder is a tool that allows for the creation of blocks-based programming experiences based on complex systems models available in NetLogo Library. Thus, it makes it possible for teachers to create entry level programming experiences capable of introducing students to non-linearity, emergence, uncertainty and other complexity related phenomena.

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Taught by Danilo Oliveira Vaz, who is a recognized expert in complex systems modeling and NetLogo programming

Explores the fundamentals of block-based programming in the context of complex systems

Introduces key concepts of complexity thinking, such as nonlinearity, emergence, and uncertainty

Provides hands-on experience with NetLogo Builder, a user-friendly tool for creating interactive simulations

Offers a unique opportunity to explore programming and complexity concepts within a single course

Suitable for beginners with little to no programming experience

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Reviews summary

Accessible blocks-based agent-based modeling

According to students, "Blocks-based ABM with NetTango" is a largely positive course, especially for those new to programming and complex systems modeling. Learners praise its blocks-based approach, making agent-based modeling accessible and intuitive without requiring traditional coding. The course is seen as invaluable for educators seeking to introduce concepts like non-linearity and emergence. While the hands-on activities are appreciated, a few learners noted potential technical glitches with NetTango Builder or a desire for more advanced exercises, suggesting it's best for absolute beginners. More recent reviews suggest a smoother experience, potentially indicating improvements over time.

Ideal for novices, but potentially too basic for experienced programmers.

"It's truly for beginners; if you have some programming background, it might feel a bit slow or basic."

"A bit too simplistic for someone like me who was looking for more advanced ABM topics."

"I found it perfect as a non-programmer, but it might not challenge learners with prior coding experience."

Earlier issues with NetTango Builder seem less prevalent in recent reviews.

"I encountered some technical glitches with NetTango Builder installation. Troubleshooting took a lot of time."

"I struggled with the software; the tool felt buggy and there wasn't enough troubleshooting guidance."

"My recent experience was smooth; I didn't face the installation problems some older reviews mentioned."

"The tool worked well for me, suggesting previous software issues may have been addressed."

Utilizes an intuitive visual programming method for ease of learning.

"The concept of block-based programming for ABM is fantastic."

"I found the block-based interface to be very intuitive and a great way to grasp complex ideas."

"It simplifies complex ideas through its visual programming method, which I found highly effective."

Simplifies complex ABM concepts for beginners and educators.

"This course made NetLogo accessible through blocks! The step-by-step guidance was perfect for me as a non-programmer."

"As a teacher, I found this invaluable. It simplifies complex ABM concepts using a visual interface."

"Absolutely brilliant for introducing complexity thinking without code. The block-based interface is intuitive."

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 Blocks-based ABM with NetTango with these activities:

Organize Course Materials

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Establish a structured system for organizing notes, assignments, and other course materials to enhance your ability to locate and review important information.

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Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials
Categorize and label materials based on topic or module
Periodically review and summarize materials to reinforce your understanding

Review Programming Concepts

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Strengthen your foundation in programming principles and algorithmic thinking to facilitate a smoother transition into block-based programming in NetLogo Builder.

Browse courses on Algorithm Design

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Review key concepts such as variables, data types, control flow, and functions
Practice solving simple programming problems and designing basic algorithms
Identify similarities and differences between block-based and text-based programming

Follow Video Tutorials on NetLogo Builder

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Enhance your understanding of NetLogo Builder's interface and features by following step-by-step video tutorials and experimenting with the provided examples.

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Search for and select reputable tutorials that align with your learning goals
Follow the instructions carefully and recreate the models in NetLogo Builder
Customize the models and explore different scenarios to deepen your understanding

Three other activities

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Explore NetLogo Models in 'An Introduction to Agent-Based Modeling'

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Deepen your understanding of NetLogo's capabilities by exploring agent-based modeling concepts and real-world examples presented in this foundational text.

View An Introduction to Agent-Based Modeling:... on Amazon

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Review the book's introduction and key chapters on NetLogo modeling
Study the provided NetLogo models and experiment with their parameters
Reflect on how agent-based modeling can be applied to your own research or interests

Practice Block-Based Programming

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Engage in repetitive practice exercises to enhance your understanding and proficiency in block-based programming in NetLogo Builder.

Browse courses on Block-Based Programming

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Create a simple model in NetLogo Builder using blocks
Experiment with different block combinations to explore their effects on the model's behavior
Troubleshoot errors and refine your code to improve model functionality

Collaborate with a Study Buddy

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Foster a supportive learning environment by partnering with a classmate to discuss concepts, troubleshoot challenges, and reinforce your understanding of block-based programming.

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Find a peer with complementary skills or interests
Establish regular study sessions to review course material and work on projects together
Take turns presenting concepts, explaining code, and providing feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Blocks-based ABM with NetTango will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data Scientists analyze data with the intent to extract meaningful insights. NetTango Builder can help build a foundation for a career in Data Science by introducing non-linearity, emergence, and uncertainty. These are all complex phenomena that can be found in data sets. A Data Scientist must first understand them before they can extract the relevant information that benefits their clients or employers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Developer

Software Developers create computer programs. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career in Software Development, especially if one wishes to specialize in the creation of modeling software. Such software is used for a variety of purposes, including data analysis, simulations, and testing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts study and evaluate computer systems to determine how they can be improved. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career as a Systems Analyst by introducing complex phenomena such as non-linearity and emergence. These concepts can help with understanding how changes or upgrades to a complex computer system may cause unintended consequences due to interactions between different components.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Engineer

Computer Systems Engineers design, develop, and maintain computer systems. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career as a Computer Systems Engineer, especially if one wishes to specialize in the development of complex systems. Such systems may be found in industries ranging from finance to healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Engineer

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use advanced analytical techniques to help businesses make better decisions. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career as an Operations Research Analyst by introducing phenomena such as non-linearity and emergence. These concepts are relevant for many of the complex systems that Operations Research Analysts study.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts study how businesses operate and identify ways to improve them. Block-based programming may be useful for a Business Analyst who wishes to specialize in the analysis of complex systems, such as supply chains or customer behavior.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Market Research Analyst

Market Research Analysts study consumer behavior and market trends. Block-based programming may be useful for a Market Research Analyst who wishes to specialize in the analysis of complex systems, such as the diffusion of new products or the impact of advertising campaigns.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts study financial data to make recommendations about investments. Block-based programming may be useful for a Financial Analyst who wishes to specialize in the analysis of complex systems, such as the behavior of stock markets or the impact of economic policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career as a Statistician by introducing non-linearity, emergence, and uncertainty. These are all complex phenomena that can be found in statistical data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Actuary

Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career as an Actuary by introducing non-linearity, emergence, and uncertainty. These are all complex phenomena that can be found in risk assessment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists study the distribution and patterns of health events and diseases in a population. Block-based programming may be useful for an Epidemiologist who wishes to specialize in the analysis of complex systems, such as the spread of infectious diseases or the impact of environmental factors on health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. Block-based programming may be useful for an Environmental Scientist who wishes to specialize in the analysis of complex systems, such as the impact of climate change or the behavior of ecosystems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Educator

Educators teach students at all levels, from elementary school to university. Block-based programming has become a popular way to introduce programming to students, and NetTango Builder is a tool that can be used to create block-based programming experiences for students of all ages. As such, this course may be useful for Educators who wish to learn more about block-based programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educator

Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers develop and deliver educational programs. Block-based programming has become a popular way to introduce programming to students, and NetTango Builder is a tool that can be used to create block-based programming experiences for students of all ages. As such, this course may be useful for Instructional Designers who wish to learn more about block-based programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for computer software and hardware. Block-based programming can help build a foundation for a career as a Technical Writer by introducing programming concepts and terminology. This knowledge can be helpful for writing documentation that is clear and accurate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Reading list

We've selected 15 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 Blocks-based ABM with NetTango.

An Introduction to Agent-Based Modeling

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This manual provides a comprehensive overview of the NetLogo programming language and environment. It is an essential reference for anyone who wants to learn how to use NetLogo to create complex systems models.

Blocks-based ABM with NetTango

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Accessible blocks-based agent-based modeling

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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