Game Theory for Social Scientists

Bookings for this module open on THURSDAY, 11 DECEMBER at 10:00 am
For more information see: http://www.ssrmc.group.cam.ac.uk/ssrmc-modules/core/making/windows

This module is part of the Social Science Research Methods Course programme which is a shared platform for providing research students with a broad range of quantitative and qualitative research methods skills that are relevant across the social sciences.

This week long course has been designed to introduce students to the intricacies and background of game theory. Coupling theory with practical simulations and workshops, students will work with practitioners on static, dynamic, and repeated games, as well as build an understanding of incomplete information. Emphasis will be placed on the relevance of game theory for your own field of study. Students with an interest in this research method are encouraged to apply.

REGISTRATION CLOSES: Friday 31st January

For a more detailed description of the course, please see http://klein.co.uk/GameTheory.html

• Mphil and PhD students from participating departments taking the Social Science Research Methods Centre training programme as part of their research degree
• Students with an interest in game theory as a research method.

• A working knowledge of mathematics (i.e. elementary calculus)
• Attendance of a briefing session on Monday 26th January
• Participation in a pre-course survey by Tue 3rd February

To introduce students to the intricacies and background of game theory. Coupling theory with practical simulations and workshops, students will work with practitioners on static, dynamic, and repeated games, as well as build an understanding of incomplete information.

Theory coupled with practical simulations and workshops.

Small group project in groups of 3 (maximum). Groups will choose from a list of games and play them with friends and/or classmates. The assessment is based on a group presentation of the experimental design in class [40%] and a short written report (6 pages maximum) that discusses design, limitations and deviations from predicted equilibrium results [60%].

Osborne, M. (2009). An Introduction to Game Theory, Oxford University Press.

Daily sessions over one week (intensive).

Once in 2014/15.