3  Introduction to Network Modeling

This module motivates why, when and how we use network analysis methods in epidemic models, setting the groundwork for the remainder of the NME course.

3.1 Module Learning Objectives

  • Understand what epidemic modeling is used for in the study of infectious diseases
  • Review major epidemic modeling frameworks, highlight strengths and weaknesses
  • Understand how transmission is represented in different frameworks
  • Demonstrate how and when persistent partnerships influence cross-sectional and longitudinal connectivity in transmission networks
  • Understand why stochastic individual based models are used for these complex transmission networks
  • Introduce Network Analysis methods for the scientific study of networks
  • Define key network terminology, including nodes, links, configurations and components
  • Review network study designs for data collection
  • Demonstrate descriptive network analysis (lab: using statnetWeb Rshiny app)

Bottom line, take-away:

  • Representing transmission dynamics accurately is a key goal of epidemic modeling
  • Transmission systems are networks, with potentially complex patterns of connectivity
  • Statistical network analysis (descriptive & inferential) provides the tools we need for accurately representing these transmission systems