Pascal Perez is running a short course in Canberra I thought you might like to know about. Here are the details:

Modelling Human Ecosystems with Agents

An Intensive Postgraduate Course:  June 19 – June 30, 2006.

9.30a.m. – 5.00p.m

Course Convener: Dr Pascal Perez

This course aims to introduce students to the principles and operation of Agent based Modelling in studying Human Ecosystems.  It will provide a clear understanding of the possibilities (and limits) of this approach recognising that these human eco-systems are inherently unpredictable, as their global behaviours emerge from their local interactions in complex, interwoven ways.  Agent-Based Modelling deals with the problem of complexity and the related search for simple representations of the real world. This course uses real case studies to demonstrate how these models are developed, and in its teaching approach is equally divided between academic lectures, computer demonstration, and hands on training. It is expected that by the end of the course students will be able to develop their own simple computer application to a human ecosystem, and be able to identify future opportunities for integrating them in social science research.

ANTH8021 is a 6 point course provided as part of the MAAPD program, and is offered as an elective for students enrolled in other programs. The course is also available on a non-award basis for students not wishing to enrol in a full University program.

For further information contact:
Prof. Patrick Kilby, MAAPD Coordinator
patrick.kilby@anu.edu.au
Ph 6125 4041.