Modelling Human Behaviour

Doel vak

After having completed this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the benefits, limitations, and risks of human behaviour modelling;
• Build a basic agent-based model in the modelling environment Netlogo;
• Perform basic social network analysis using Python;
• Apply behavioural scientific principles in user interface design using Figma;
• Assess the practical and ethical implications of behavioural design solutions;
• Critically evaluate data-driven behavioural models;
• Report, in a critical manner, about model design, evaluation and application;
• Synthesise different theoretical perspectives in the analysis of human behaviour models

Inhoud vak

This course offers a foundational introduction to the development and application of behavioural models towards the design of human-centred systems. Students will be introduced to a combination of practical and theoretical tools for making sense of human behaviour, and consider how this knowledge can be appropriately and responsibly applied in computing systems.

The course covers different perspectives on modelling behaviour at a range of abstraction levels, from explaining individual decisions to capturing collective actions and emergent phenomena. Students will explore the strengths, limitations and risks of contemporary approaches to understanding, predicting, and influencing human behaviour, and its relevance for AI research.

Students will develop basic methodological skills for human behaviour modelling at all stages, from information gathering to model design, implementation, and the critical assessment of outcomes and implications. Through examples drawn from relevant domains, students will investigate how models can enhance understanding of human actions and inform the design of technologies that support human behaviour and decision-making.

The coursework enhances theoretical understanding with practical application, engaging students with appropriate modelling tools and interdisciplinary research skills. By the end of this course, students will understand the process and requirements for responsible human behaviour modelling in a variety of applied settings. This prepares them for a B2 project course that will delve deeper into the practical application of these skills in individual research projects using agent-based modelling.

Aanvullende informatie onderwijsvormen

Students can expect around 3.5 contact hours per week for the duration of the course, consisting of a combination of lectures and practicals. Attendance is mandatory, as practical assignments need to be completed in class, and the lecture content will be tested in-class summative assessments.

Toetsvorm

Practical assignments (totalling 35% of the grade), summative assessments (totalling 30% of the grade) and an exam (35% of the grade). Each of these three elements should be graded at least a 5.5. All of the above will take place on campus.

At most one assignment and one summative assessment can be redone, if the average of that element fails to meet the 5.5 requirement. There is a resit available for the exam.

Literatuur

The lectures concisely guide students through a broad range of topics. Attending all of the lectures is critical to grasp the content and pass the assessments and assignments. Supplementary reading material will be provided on Canvas.

Aanvullende informatie doelgroep

Overige informatie

In this course, the use of generative AI (GenAI), such as ChatGPT or similar tools, is not permitted in assignments or assessments. Any use of GenAI in this course is considered fraud. If established, the submitted work or assessment result will be declared invalid, and the Examination Board may impose further measures.

Aanbevolen voorkennis

Python programming.