The emergence of novel wireless networking paradigms such as small cell and
cognitive radio networks has forever transformed the way in which wireless
systems are operated. In particular, the need for self-organizing solutions to
manage the scarce spectral resources has become a prevalent theme in many
emerging wireless systems. In this paper, the first comprehensive tutorial on
the use of matching theory, a Nobelprize winning framework, for resource
management in wireless networks is developed. To cater for the unique features
of emerging wireless networks, a novel, wireless-oriented classification of
matching theory is proposed. Then, the key solution concepts and algorithmic
implementations of this framework are exposed. Then, the developed concepts are
applied in three important wireless networking areas in order to demonstrate
the usefulness of this analytical tool. Results show how matching theory can
effectively improve the performance of resource allocation in all three
applications discussed