NetLogo, an agent-based modeling tool that can be run directly in your browser
By Uri Wilensky
Module Description:
This week’s featured resource is NetLogo, a multi-agent programmable modeling environment that can be run directly on the QUBES website. NetLogo allows users to impose simple rules on individual “agents”, explore the behavior of the individual agents under various conditions, and observe the impact of the agents’ behavior on the system as a whole.
NetLogo is simple enough for use by students and teachers but robust enough for use as a research tool. Modelers can use NetLogo to create new simulations or use and adapt the many existing simulations in the NetLogo Models Library which address a variety of topics in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, economics, and social psychology. Each model in the library has a “Things to Try” section with suggestions for exploring the system, which can be used by students as it is or used by teachers to inspire a more extensive activity. A detailed Netlogo User Manual with tutorials is also available to help users get started with the software.
NetLogo was written by Uri Wilensky, the director of the Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling at Northwestern University, where NetLogo is being maintained. NetLogo can be freely downloaded at http://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/ or run directly in your browser at NetLogo Web or on QUBES at https://qubeshub.org/tools/netlogo.
Teaching Setting:
NetLogo models can be explored and revised as part of model-based inquiry in middle, secondary and undergraduate classrooms as well as serving as the basis for research in more advanced settings.
Citation:
Wilensky, U. 1999. NetLogo. Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling, Northwestern University. Evanston, IL. Available from http://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/.
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