Choice Modeling: Predicting Human Behavior

Course Description

Welcome to the fascinating world of predicting human behavior through mathematical models! This intermediate-level course, offered by EPFLx, delves into the realm of choice modeling to develop disaggregate demand models. With a primary focus on the logit model, you'll explore the intricacies of model specification, parameter estimation, validation processes, and real-world applications. This course isn't just theoretical – you'll get hands-on experience using Biogeme software and work with real data sets, bridging the gap between concept and practice.

What You'll Learn

• Understand the behavioral assumptions behind disaggregate choice models
• Master the derivation of operational models
• Develop skills in model specification
• Learn to estimate model parameters from choice data
• Gain proficiency in testing model specifications
• Apply estimated models to real-world scenarios
• Use Biogeme software for choice modeling

Prerequisites

• Bachelor-level knowledge of statistics
• Familiarity with linear regression
• Basic understanding of mathematical concepts

Course Content

• Introduction to behavior modeling
• Theoretical foundations of choice modeling
• Binary choice models
• Introduction to Biogeme software
• Choice models with multiple alternatives
• Model testing and validation
• Forecasting techniques

Who Should Take This Course

This course is ideal for engineering students, data analysts, market researchers, economists, and professionals in fields where predicting human behavior is crucial. It's perfect for those who want to elevate their understanding of choice modeling and gain practical skills in demand forecasting.

Real-World Applications

The skills acquired in this course have wide-ranging applications:

• Marketing: Predict consumer preferences and optimize product offerings
• Urban Planning: Forecast transportation choices to improve city infrastructure
• Economics: Model decision-making processes for policy analysis
• Healthcare: Patient choice modeling
• Environmental Studies: Predicting eco-friendly behaviors
• Technology: Adoption forecasting

Syllabus

1. Introduction to behavior modeling
2. Theoretical foundations
3. Binary choice
4. Biogeme: an open-source software for estimating choice models
5. Choice with multiple alternatives
6. Testing
7. Forecasting

Conclusion

This course offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping you with the tools to unravel the complexities of human behavior. By the end of this course, you'll be able to create sophisticated models that can predict choices in various scenarios, giving you a competitive edge in your field. Don't miss this opportunity to demystify human behavior and harness the power of choice modeling!

Enroll now and start your journey into the world of choice modeling!