Agent-based simulation tutorial - simulation of emergent behavior and differences between agent-based simulation and discrete-event simulation

Abstract

This tutorial demonstrates the use of agent-based simulation (ABS) in modeling emergent behaviors. We first introduce key concepts of ABS by using two simple examples: the Game of Life and the Boids models. We illustrate agent-based modeling issues and simulation of emergent behaviors by using examples in social networks, auction-type markets, emergency evacuation, crowd behavior under normal situations, biology, material science, chemistry, and archaeology. Finally, we discuss the relationship between ABS and other simulation methodologies and outline some research challenges in ABS.