Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo from Coursera

In this 2-hour long project-based course, you will create an agent-based model (ABM) that simulates the spread of a hypothetical virus through close contact between agents in a virtual world. By doing so, you will learn about the wonders of agent-based modeling as a paradigm, as well as the basics of NetLogo - one of the most famous and powerful simulation environments in this realm.

One of the beauties of ABM is that we can often observe emergent properties arising from the coded interactions between agents in the simulated world. Therefore, by experimenting with different interaction rules and parameters, we can gain an intuitive understanding of the underlying dynamics of varied complex phenomena. Such skills are extremely valuable for any decision making position, as well as for education, especially in a world where interconnectivity seems to be ubiquitous.

In this way, this model and project are highly attuned to the global pandemic that we’re facing due to the spread of the Coronavirus.

Note: This course works best for learners who are based in the North America region. We’re currently working on providing the same experience in other regions.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo

By the end of this project, you will have created an agent-based model that simulates the spread of a hypothetical virus through close contact between agents in a world. By doing so, you will learn about the wonders of agent-based modeling (as a paradigm that can help us better understand complex phenomena), as well as the basics of NetLogo, one of the most famous and powerful simulation environments in the world of ABM.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches fundamentals of agent-based modeling for better understanding complex phenomena

Teaches basics of NetLogo, a powerful simulation environment for agent-based modeling

Develops critical thinking skills for grasping the underlying dynamics of complex phenomena by experimenting with parameters

Uses the timely spread of Coronavirus as a relatable context for understanding the model's significance

Requires a North America-based location for optimal experience, which may limit accessibility

Reviews summary

Engaging netlogo modeling course

Learners say that Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo is easy to understand and offers a great foundation for learning the basics of NetLogo. Students especially appreciated the engaging assignments and projects, and they found the instruction to be helpful. While some noted that the course could be more comprehensive, many enjoyed the practical, hands-on experience it provided.

Great for NetLogo beginners.

"A great course for beginners!"

"IT IS A GOOD COURSE FOR BEGINNERS TO LEARN BASICS OF NETLOGO."

"Very good introduction to Netlogo, simple and easy to follow"

Offers clear explanations.

"Very clear explanation"

"Great step-by-step introduction"

"Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo is beautiful!"

Involves hands-on projects.

"Nice project."

"Very good introduction. Had to make frequent pauses in instructor's lessons to look for details but a good final project resulted. Great satisfaction in completing a project from start to finish."

May experience technical difficulties.

"Rhyme is not a good platform to conduct these sessions, given that they time out, I was not able to complete the hands on project"

Could be more comprehensive.

"Content is limited to transmitted disease"

"The project covers too little content and doesn't really worth its price..."

"I would have preferred a course that went into more depth"

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 Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo with these activities:

Review Basic Epidemiology

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Strengthen your foundational knowledge of epidemiology to enhance your understanding of the virus spread model.

Browse courses on Epidemiology

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Review concepts of transmission, infection rates, and herd immunity.
Explore case studies and examples of real-world epidemics.

Create a Study Guide

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Enhance your understanding of course concepts by organizing and reviewing key materials.

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Compile notes, slides, and other resources from the course.
Identify key concepts and organize them into a coherent structure.
Create practice questions and exercises to reinforce your learning.

Read 'Modeling Complex Systems' by Nigel Gilbert and Klaus Troitzsch

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Gain a deeper understanding of agent-based modeling and its applications by exploring a seminal work in the field.

View Simulation for the Social Scientist on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
Participate in online discussions or forums to engage with other readers.

Five other activities

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Facilitate a Discussion

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Deepen your understanding and critical thinking skills by facilitating a discussion on the implications of the model and its potential applications.

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Prepare talking points and questions to guide the discussion.
Facilitate a constructive and engaging discussion, encouraging participation from all members.
Summarize key points and insights gained from the discussion.

Experiment with Different Variables

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Gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of agent-based modeling by experimenting with different model parameters and observing the resulting simulations.

Browse courses on Agent-Based Modeling

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Modify the interaction rules to observe changes in the spread of the virus.
Adjust the parameters controlling the number of agents, their movement patterns, and the rate of infection.
Analyze the simulation results to identify patterns and draw insights about the dynamics of the virus spread.

Develop a Visualization

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Enhance your understanding of the model and improve communication of results by creating a visual representation of the simulation data.

Browse courses on Data Visualization

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Design a visualization that effectively communicates key insights from the simulation.
Use data visualization tools to create a dynamic and interactive model representation.
Share your visualization with others to foster discussion and understanding.

Design an Agent-Based Model

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Apply your understanding of agent-based modeling to create your own model of a complex system, expanding your skills and deepening your knowledge.

Browse courses on NetLogo

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Identify a complex system you are interested in modeling.
Design the agents, their interactions, and the environment of your model.
Implement your model in NetLogo or a similar platform.
Run simulations and analyze the results to gain insights into the system's behavior.

Contribute to a NetLogo Open Source Project

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Deepen your understanding of NetLogo and make valuable contributions to the open-source community.

Browse courses on Open Source

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Identify a NetLogo open source project that aligns with your interests.
Review the project's code and documentation.
Make contributions to the project, such as bug fixes, feature enhancements, or documentation improvements.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Epidemiologist

An Epidemiologist researches the causes and patterns of health and disease conditions in defined populations. They are instrumental in the development of public health programs that can help prevent illness and promote well-being. By understanding the spread of disease, they can help to develop strategies to contain and prevent outbreaks. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course teaches the basics of simulating the spread of a hypothetical virus, providing a foundation for understanding the dynamics of disease transmission and the development of effective public health interventions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Data Scientist

Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to extract meaningful insights. They use their skills to solve complex problems, make predictions, and develop data-driven solutions. As a Data Scientist, you might work on projects related to disease surveillance, outbreak detection, and healthcare resource planning. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course can help build a foundation for understanding the principles of data analysis and modeling, which are essential skills for Data Scientists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Public Health Analyst

Public Health Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify and address public health issues. They work with public health officials and other stakeholders to develop and implement programs that promote health and well-being. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course provides a foundation for understanding the spread of disease and the factors that influence public health outcomes. This knowledge is essential for Public Health Analysts who are responsible for developing and evaluating public health interventions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Analyst

Health Policy Analyst

Health Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop policies that impact the health of populations. They work with policymakers to develop and implement policies that promote health and prevent disease. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course can help build a foundation for understanding the complex dynamics of health policy and the factors that influence policy decisions. This knowledge is essential for Health Policy Analysts who are responsible for developing and evaluating health policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst

Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Administrators plan, direct, and coordinate the delivery of healthcare services. They work with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive high-quality care. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course can help Healthcare Administrators understand the complex dynamics of healthcare delivery systems and the factors that influence patient outcomes. This knowledge can help them make better decisions about how to allocate resources and improve the quality of care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Medical Researcher

Medical Researchers design and conduct studies to investigate the causes and treatments of diseases. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, hospitals, and research institutes. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course may be useful for Medical Researchers who are interested in using computer simulations to model the spread of disease and evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions.

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Social Scientist

Social Scientists study human behavior and society. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, including surveys, interviews, and experiments. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course may be useful for Social Scientists who are interested in using computer simulations to model social phenomena, such as the spread of disease or the adoption of new technologies.

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Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists design, develop, and maintain computer systems and applications. They work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course may be useful for Computer Scientists who are interested in developing computer simulations to model complex systems, such as the spread of disease.

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Educator

Educators teach students at all levels, from preschool to college. They develop lesson plans, deliver instruction, and assess student learning. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course may be useful for Educators who are interested in using computer simulations to teach students about complex systems, such as the spread of disease.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop policies for government agencies. They work on a wide range of issues, including healthcare, education, and environmental protection. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course may be useful for Policy Analysts who are interested in using computer simulations to model the effects of different policies.

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Journalist

Journalists write, edit, and produce news stories for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They investigate and report on current events, and they often interview experts to get their perspectives. The “Introduction to Agent-based Modeling with NetLogo” course may be useful for Journalists who want to learn more about the spread of disease and the factors that influence public health outcomes.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts help businesses understand their operations and improve their performance. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, and they often develop recommendations for how to improve business processes.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. They work with stakeholders to define project objectives, develop project plans, and track project progress.

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Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with users to understand their needs and develop software that meets those needs.

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Data Entry Clerk

Data Entry Clerks enter data into computer systems. They may also verify and correct data.

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