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Danilo Oliveira Vaz
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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OpenCourser.com/course/fivxyr/blocks
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What's inside
Syllabus
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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
Show steps
Establish a structured system for organizing notes, assignments, and other course materials to enhance your ability to locate and review important information.
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of NetLogo Builder's interface and features by following step-by-step video tutorials and experimenting with the provided examples.
Show steps
-
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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Explore NetLogo Models in 'An Introduction to Agent-Based Modeling'
Show steps
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
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Engage in repetitive practice exercises to enhance your understanding and proficiency in block-based programming in NetLogo Builder.
Browse courses on
Block-Based Programming
Show steps
-
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
Show steps
Foster a supportive learning environment by partnering with a classmate to discuss concepts, troubleshoot challenges, and reinforce your understanding of block-based programming.
Show steps
-
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
Organize Course Materials
Show steps
Establish a structured system for organizing notes, assignments, and other course materials to enhance your ability to locate and review important information.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
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
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of NetLogo Builder's interface and features by following step-by-step video tutorials and experimenting with the provided examples.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Explore NetLogo Models in 'An Introduction to Agent-Based Modeling'
Show steps
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
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Engage in repetitive practice exercises to enhance your understanding and proficiency in block-based programming in NetLogo Builder.
Browse courses on
Block-Based Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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
Show steps
Foster a supportive learning environment by partnering with a classmate to discuss concepts, troubleshoot challenges, and reinforce your understanding of block-based programming.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- 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 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.
Software Developer
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.
Systems Analyst
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.
Computer Systems Engineer
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.
Operations Research Analyst
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.
Business 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.
Market Research 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.
Financial 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.
Statistician
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.
Actuary
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.
Epidemiologist
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.
Environmental Scientist
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.
Educator
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.
Instructional Designer
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.
Technical Writer
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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/fivxyr/blocks
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.
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.
Save
Provides a gentle introduction to the concepts and techniques of agent-based modeling. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use agent-based models to study complex systems.
Provides a broad overview of the science of complexity. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the complex systems that surround us.
Save
Provides a clear and concise introduction to the principles of systems thinking. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to understand and manage complex systems.
Provides a research-based guide to learning effectively. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to improve their learning skills.
Save
Provides a practical guide to using the science of learning to improve your learning outcomes. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to learn effectively.
Save
Provides a practical guide to improving your math and science skills. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to think like a mathematician or scientist.
Provides a step-by-step guide to solving math problems. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to approach and solve complex problems.
Save
Provides a playful and engaging introduction to the world of mathematics. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the beauty and power of mathematics.
Save
Pulitzer Prize-winning exploration of the relationship between mathematics, music, and art. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the creative process and the nature of intelligence.
Save
Provides a historical overview of the science of complexity. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the origins and development of this field.
Provides a provocative and thought-provoking look at the role of uncertainty in our lives. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to deal with the unexpected.
Save
Provides a fascinating look at the power of social networks and the role of ideas in shaping our world. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to create change.
Provides a thought-provoking look at the role of intuition in our decision-making. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to make better decisions.
Provides a powerful and insightful look at the role of introverts in our society. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to embrace and cultivate their own introverted qualities.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/fivxyr/blocks
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