At the end of the course, the student understands the conceptual and technical foundation of multi-agent systems, and is able to model complex computational and socio-technical systems in terms of agent-oriented abstractions; build complex computational and socio-technical systems using agent-oriented technologies and methodologies; design and engineer intelligent systems as multi-agent systems, by integrating techniques and methods from artificial intelligence in an effective and methodologically-sound way.

course contents

Autonomy in natural and artificial systems
Agent-oriented middleware for (intellligent) distributed systems
- ACL & Protocols; FIPA; JADE
Models for intelligent agents and MAS
- Game Theory; Intentional agents, BDI; A&A
Technologies for intelligent agents and MAS
- Jason, ASTRA, CArtAgO
Agreement technologies
- Semantics; Norms; Organisations & Institutions; Argumentation & Negotiation; Trust & Reputation
- Coordination Models & Technologies; Linda & TuCSoN
Agent-oriented Software Engineering
- GAIA & SODA
Other contents
- Simulation and MAS; NetLogo, Alchemist
- Self-organisation, Swarm intelligence and MAS
- Logics for MAS

teaching methods

Lessons with slides
Examples discussed and built by the teacher and by experts from the field
Lab activity

assessment methods

The assessment of the learning achievements is based on the development of an individual/group project, which results in the production of suitable artefacts, either documental or software.

The final test consists in the oral discussion of the project.

Final evaluation depends on the level and extent of the project, the quality of the document and software artefacts produced, and the degree of knowledge on the course's subjects demonstrated in the final discussion.

course series