Experimental Methods II - Agent Based Modelling ("Experimental Methods 2.01 alt")

Winter and Summer Term: 040163 Master Level

This course is an alternative option for Experimental Methods II.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

Agent Based Modelling, and Computational Methods in general, can provide valuable insights into the functioning of organisations. In academic research, simulations have long been used as a complementary tool besides traditional empirical work and laboratory experiments to produce propositions for empirical validation, model real-world scenarios and generate artificial datasets.

This class builds on and extends concepts and topics from Experimental Methods I: Agent Based Modelling in Organisations. Accordingly, the successful completion of Experimental Methods I is a prerequisite for attending this course. Students will draw on knowledge gained in the first course and are expected to be able to follow more advanced discussions building on these contents.

The classes will mainly focus on two aspects: a) understanding established types of computational models used in organizational studies in more detail and b) hands-on work with Python code. The idea is to get a solid overview of the most important model types, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and for which questions they can be usefully employed. Furthermore, students will continue to work on their proficiency with respect to Python, a widely-used programming language.

Pre-requisites:

Admission to the Master's program

2016 Curriculum: Successful completion of the Minor

Language: This course is held in English

Assignments and assessment:

10% - Homework Assignments
25% - In-class Participation
25% - Paper Presentation
40% - Final Exam

Attendance:

Please note that attendance during the first session is absolutely mandatory.
Missing the first session without prior written notice to the lecturer (at least 24 hours before the start of the session) providing a relevant reason/proof (e.g. doctor’s notice in case of illness) will result in deregistration from the course. In such cases the missing student’s place will be given to the person next in line on the waiting list (if this person is present in the first session).

In general, students are allowed to miss up to 10% (2.25 hours) of scheduled classes without any consequences. Exceeding this limit, however, will result in failing the class.