Master
2018/2019
Social and Economic Networks: Models and Analysis
Type:
Elective course (Modern Social Analysis)
Area of studies:
Sociology
Delivered by:
Department of Sociology
When:
1 year, 3, 4 module
Mode of studies:
distance learning
Instructors:
Valeria A. Ivaniushina
Master’s programme:
Modern Social Analysis
Language:
English
ECTS credits:
3
Contact hours:
4
Course Syllabus
Abstract
The course gives empirical background on social and economic networks, and an overview of concepts used to describe and measure networks. It describes models of networks formation, including random network models as well as strategic formation models, and some hybrids. The course discusses a series of models of how networks impact behavior, including contagion, diffusion, learning, and peer in uences. The course is based on the online course «Social and Economic Networks: Models and Analysis» (https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-economic-networks)
Learning Objectives
- Overview of concepts used to describe and measure networks
- Get empirical background on social and economic networks
- Discuss a series of models of how networks impact behavior, including contagion, diffusion, learning, and peer in uences
Expected Learning Outcomes
- Understanding basic concepts of social network analysis
- Understanding how the networks form (network models)
- Understanding how networks can contribute to the explanation of specific social, political, economic and cultural phenomena
- Understanding network approach to analysing social behavior
- Mastering basic skills of working with SNA software Gephi and Pajek
Course Contents
- Introduction, Background and Definitions. Basic terminology and network examplesBackground and Definitions. Basic terminology and network examples
- Network metrics. Centrality Measures: Degree, Betweenness, Closeness, Eigenvector, and Katz-Bonacich.Centrality Measures. Degree, Betweenness, Closeness, Eigenvector, and Katz-Bonacich.
- Network models: Exponential Random Graph Models, Growing Random Networks, Preferential Attachment and Power LawsExponential Random Graph Models, Growing Random Networks, Preferential Attachment and Power Laws
- Strategic Network Formation: , The Connections Model, Directed Networks, Hybrid Models of Choice and Chance.The Connections Model, Directed Networks, Hybrid Models of Choice and Chance.
- Diffusion on Networks: Empirical Background, Random Network Models of Contagion, The SIS model, Fitting a Simulated Model to Data.Empirical Background, Random Network Models of Contagion, The SIS model, Fitting a Simulated Model to Data.
- Learning on Networks: Bayesian Learning on Networks, The DeGroot Model of Learning on a Network, Convergence of Beliefs, The Wisdom of Crowds, How Inuence depends on Network PositionBayesian Learning on Networks, The DeGroot Model of Learning on a Network, Convergence of Beliefs, The Wisdom of Crowds, How Inuence depends on Network Position
- Games on Networks - Peer Effects: Network Games, Peer Influences: Strategic Complements and Substitutes, the Relation between Network Structure and BehaviorPeer Effects: Network Games, Peer Influences: Strategic Complements and Substitutes, the Relation between Network Structure and Behavior
Assessment Elements
- Online testsMOOC (online tests)
- In-class ParticipationСlassroom discussions face-to face; work in small groups
Bibliography
Recommended Core Bibliography
- Huber, L. M., & Schneider, H. L. (2008). Social Networks : Development, Evaluation and Influence. New York: Nova Science Publishers, Inc. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=edsebk&AN=311265
- Newman, M. E. J. (2010). Networks : An Introduction. Oxford: OUP Oxford. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=nlebk&AN=458550
Recommended Additional Bibliography
- Easley, D., & Kleinberg, J. (2010). Networks, Crowds, and Markets : Reasoning About a Highly Connected World. New York: Cambridge eText. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=edsebk&AN=324125