MATLAB assignment on networks

Hi guys, I have learned MATLAB/SIMULINK during my uni studies, using it for a variety of applications such as DSP, communications, control systems, image processing and neural networks. I have also used it during my professional career after graduation.

I like to look at MATLAB projects from time to time to brush up my skills.

I came across what looks like a uni assignment. I have attached the PDF. But I didn't understand it at all. Not even what subject it was covering.

I tried googling some of the key terms but it was like reading a foreign language:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barab%C3%A1si%E2%80%93Albert_model

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watts%E2%80%93Strogatz_model

Can someone give me a very high level overview of what subject this assignment is covering and what the point of this theory is for? What is the practical application of it?

I found uni to often give you a lot of complex theory without understanding the actual point of it, which for my learning style makes it far more difficult to learn.

I am always interested to learn about different applications and techniques that MATLAB can be used for, to expand my own capability and understanding.

Also what are the relevant MATLAB tool boxes and are there any other MATHWORKS features that are relevant?

And what is the sub-field called and where can I learn the basic theory?

If anyone can break this assignment down for me in very simple terms it would be much appreciated.