Game Theory Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview of game theory concepts and their relevance to strategic decision-making in economics, politics, and everyday life. This course is structured into six modules, each requiring approximately 17 hours of engagement, totaling around 102 hours. Learners will gain a solid foundation in game theory through a blend of theoretical instruction, practical examples, and applied problem-solving. The course concludes with a final project that integrates key concepts.
Module 1: Introduction to Game Theory
Estimated time: 17 hours
- Fundamentals of Game Theory
- Mathematical modeling of strategic interaction
- Role of rational and irrational agents
- Real-world applications of game theory
Module 2: Game Representation
Estimated time: 17 hours
- Normal form representation of games
- Extensive form and game trees
- Analyzing payoffs and strategies
- Strategic vs. sequential decision-making
Module 3: Nash Equilibrium and Applications
Estimated time: 17 hours
- Definition and significance of Nash Equilibrium
- Finding equilibria in static games
- Applications in auctions and market behavior
- Negotiation scenarios and equilibrium outcomes
Module 4: Bayesian Games
Estimated time: 17 hours
- Games with incomplete information
- Bayesian methods in game modeling
- Beliefs and expected payoffs under uncertainty
- Applications in signaling and screening games
Module 5: Repeated and Stochastic Games
Estimated time: 17 hours
- Dynamics of repeated interactions
- Strategies for cooperation and defection
- Stochastic (random) elements in games
- Long-term strategic planning in uncertain environments
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 17 hours
- Apply game theory to a real-world negotiation scenario
- Analyze strategic decisions in market or policy contexts
- Submit a written report with equilibrium analysis and recommendations
Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of algebra and probability
- Familiarity with logical reasoning and analytical thinking
- No prior knowledge of game theory required
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Model strategic interactions using game theory frameworks
- Identify and compute Nash Equilibria in various scenarios
- Analyze decision-making under incomplete information
- Apply game-theoretic reasoning to auctions, markets, and negotiations
- Design strategies for repeated and stochastic environments