SA585 INTRODUCTION TO AGENT-BASED MODELLING

Course Objectives

The objective of this course is to provide an introduction to agent-based modelling as a methodological tool for archaeological studies and interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, the course aims to instill a modelling mindset in our students.

Course Content

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the potential of agent-based modelling (ABM) as a primary technique for computational simulations.Simulation is a formal scientific method used to develop, compare and test hypotheses (as expressed in computational models). While the use of simulation has increased dramatically over the last few decades across many scientific disciplines, the approach remains limited in social sciences and humanities such as archaeology, mostly due to the technological barrier involving coding skills. This course will help student become familiar with coding approaches, using the user-friendly ABM software of NetLogo for building, executing and analysing simulations. No prior coding abilities or other technical skills are required, as we will start from the very basics in NetLogo programming. More important than the usage of particular tools, is the aim to create a diligent and creative mindset of model thinking.This requires deep reflection and developing habits of thought,going through phases of trial and error. The course will be aimed in the first place at the students of the M.Sc. in Settlement Archaeology and M.Sc.in Digital Archaeology, but will also be highly relevant for students from other departments, especially those from the humanities and social sciences who have less experience with model-based thinking.

Course Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, students are expected to have gained:

• A model-thinking mindset
• A broader understanding of modelling and simulation approaches in archaeology
• Basic coding skills necessary to work with and build computer simulations of complex social and natural systems
• Skills for developing conceptual models on any topic of interest
• Insight into ancient societies and other potential research interests through the lens of computational modelling