MIT OpenCourseWare: All Courses

12.007 Geobiology, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Bosak, Tanja — 2009-11-18T01:15:33-05:00

The interactive Earth system: biology in geologic, environmental and climate change throughout Earth history. Since life began it has continually shaped and re-shaped the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere and the solid earth. Subject introduces the concept of "life as a geological agent" and examines the interaction between biology and the earth system during the roughly 4 billion years since life first appeared. Topics include the origin of the solar system and the early Earth atmosphere; the origin and evolution of life and its influence on climate up through and including the modern age and the problem of global warming; the global carbon cycle; and Astrobiology.

24.08J Philosophical Issues in Brain Science, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Byrne, Alex — 2009-11-18T01:13:42-05:00

This course provides an introduction to important philosophical questions about the mind, specifically those that are intimately connected with contemporary psychology and neuroscience. Are our concepts innate, or are they acquired by experience? (And what does it even mean to call a concept 'innate'?) Are 'mental images' pictures in the head? Is color in the mind or in the world? Is the mind nothing more than the brain? Can there be a science of consciousness? The course will include guest lectures by Professors.

5.37 Introduction to Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Danheiser, Rick — 2009-11-18T01:13:36-05:00

This course, which spans a third of a semester, provides students with experience with techniques employed in synthetic organic chemistry and to introduce them to the exciting research area of catalytic chiral catalyst. This class is part of the new laboratory curriculum in the MIT Department of Chemistry. Undergraduate Research-Inspired Experimental Chemistry Alternatives (URIECA) introduces students to cutting edge research topics in a modular format.

21M.303 Writing in Tonal Forms I, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Child, Peter — 2009-11-13T03:10:16-05:00

Written and analytic exercises based on eighteenth- and nineteenth-century small forms and harmonic practice found in music such as the chorale preludes of Bach; minuets and trios of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven; and the songs and character pieces of Schubert and Schumann. Sightsinging laboratory is required.

15.281 Advanced Managerial Communication, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Hartman, Neal — 2009-11-12T01:06:15-05:00

Builds on managerial communication skills developed in 15.280. Introduces interactive oral and interpersonal communication skills important to managers, including presenting to a hostile audience, running meetings, listening, and contributing to group decision-making. Includes team-run classes on chosen communication topics. Also includes an executive summary and a long oral presentation, both aimed at a business audience, generally in conjunction with a project for another subject.

24.120 Moral Psychology, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Holton, Richard — 2009-11-09T01:21:04-05:00

This course is an examination of philosophical theories of action and motivation in the light of empirical findings from social psychology, sociology and neuroscience. Topics include belief, desire, and moral motivation; sympathy and empathy; intentions and other committing states; strength of will and weakness of will; free will; addiction and compulsion; guilt, shame and regret; evil; self-knowledge and self-deception; virtues and character traits.

24.973 Advanced Semantics, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Fintel, Kai von — 2009-11-09T01:20:56-05:00

Current work on semantics and questions of logic and meaning for syntactic systems in generative grammar.

1.040 Project Management, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Moavenzadeh, Fred — 2009-11-09T01:20:39-05:00

In this course, three important aspects of construction project management are taught: The theory, methods and quantitative tools used to effectively plan, organize, and control construction projects; Efficient management methods revealed through practice and research; Hands-on, practical project management knowledge from on-site situations. To achieve this, we will use a basic project management framework in which the project life-cycle is broken into organizing, planning, monitoring, controlling and learning from old and current construction projects. Within the framework, you will learn the methodologies and tools necessary for each aspect of the process as well as the theories upon which these are built. By the end of the term you will be able to adapt and apply the framework to effectively manage a construction project in an Architecture/Engineering/Construction (A/E/C) organization.

18.312 Algebraic Combinatorics, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Musiker, Gregg — 2009-11-04T04:03:52-05:00

This is an introductory course in algebraic combinatorics. No prior knowledge of combinatorics is expected, but assumes a familiarity with linear algebra and finite groups. Topics were chosen to show the beauty and power of techniques in algebraic combinatorics. Rigorous mathematical proofs are expected.

11.481J Analyzing and Accounting for Regional Economic Growth, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Polenske, Karen — 2009-10-29T04:24:39-04:00

Surveys theories of regional growth, factor mobility, clustering, industrial restructuring, learning regions, and global supply chains from a political-economy perspective. Examines/critiques accounting frameworks including accounting for the underground economy, multipliers, linkages, and supply chains used to assess employment and environmental impacts, infrastructure investments. Assesses price indices, industrial location and employment measures, and shift-share analyses. Discussions of US and foreign applications.

24.729 Topics in Philosophy of Language: Modeling Representation, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Rayo, Agustin — 2009-10-29T12:14:01-04:00

The seminar will be devoted to understanding what we're up to when we ascribe contents to a person's assertions and mental attitudes. We seek to make clear the rules of the game for the philosophy of language. We'll survey classic discussions of the issue by Field, Lewis and Stalnaker. But much of the emphasis of the class will be on getting clear about the limitations of our theoretical tools. I'd like to focus on places where our theorizing runs into trouble, or breaks down altogether.

24.910 Topics in Linguistic Theory: Propositional Attitudes, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Stephenson, Tamina — 2009-10-29T12:09:43-04:00

This course explores topics related to the representation and expression of propositional attitudes (e.g. belief, knowledge, and desires) and speech acts (e.g. saying and asking) in natural language. The main focus will be on semantics of predicates such as believe, know, want, say, ask, etc. Other topics will include the syntax of main and embedded clauses and formal representation of the pragmatics of conversation. The course provides practice in written and oral communication.

MAS.961 Special Topics: Designing Sociable Media, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Donath, Judith — 2009-10-22T01:07:10-04:00

This project-based course explores new design strategies for social interaction in the computer mediated world. Through weekly readings and design assignments we will examine topics such as: data-based portraiture, depicting growth, change and the passage of time, visualizing conversations, crowds, and networks, interfaces for the connected city, mobile social technologies. The course emphasizes developing visual and interactive literacy.

18.102 Introduction to Functional Analysis, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Melrose, Richard — 2009-10-21T12:40:59-04:00

This is a undergraduate course. It will cover normed spaces, completeness, functionals, Hahn-Banach theorem, duality, operators; Lebesgue measure, measurable functions, integrability, completeness of L-p spaces; Hilbert space; compact, Hilbert-Schmidt and trace class operators; as well as spectral theorem.

SP.287 Kitchen Chemistry, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Christie, Patricia — 2009-10-21T12:40:44-04:00

Special topic seminars and independent study projects. Seminars are run by a staff member or supervised undergraduate instructor and meet weekly. Independent study projects require approval and regular supervision by a staff member, as well as a written proposal and a final report.

6.453 Quantum Optical Communication, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Shapiro, Jeffrey — 2009-10-20T04:22:15-04:00

This course is offered to graduate students and covers topics in five major areas of quantum optical communication: quantum optics, single-mode and two-mode quantum systems, multi-mode quantum systems, nonlinear optics, and quantum systems theory. Specific topics include the following: Dirac notation quantum mechanics; harmonic oscillator quantization; number states, coherent states, and squeezed states; P-representation and classical fields; direct, homodyne, and heterodyne detection; linear propagation loss; phase insensitive and phase sensitive amplifiers; entanglement and teleportation; field quantization; quantum photodetection; phase-matched interactions; optical parametric amplifiers; generation of squeezed states, photon-twin beams, non-classical fourth-order interference, and polarization entanglement; optimum binary detection; quantum precision measurements; and quantum cryptography.

21L.471 Major English Novels, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Lipkowitz, Ina — 2009-10-20T04:17:31-04:00

In this class, you will read, think about, and (I hope) enjoy important examples of what has become one of the most popular literary genres today, if not the most popular: the novel. Some of the questions we will consider are: Why did so many novels appear in the eighteenth century? Why were they—and are they—called novels? Who wrote them? Who read them? Who narrates them? What are they likely to be about? Do they have distinctive characteristics? What is their relationship to the time and place in which they appeared? How have they changed over the years? And, most of all, why do we like to read them so much?

SP.691 Studies in Women's Life Narratives: Feminist Inquiry, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Bergland, Renee — 2009-10-08T11:32:47-04:00

Close examination of women's life narratives. Syllabi vary.

SP.269 Passing: Flexibility in Race and Gender, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Dillon, Rachel — 2009-10-08T11:26:29-04:00

This course is primarily a literature seminar. We will use American literature as a lens through which to examine different passing tropes. It will provide an introduction to queer, gender, and critical race theories for science and math majors. We will read such works as Running A Thousand Miles for Freedom, Incognegro, and Focault's A History of Sexuality , to name just a few.

5.74 Introductory Quantum Mechanics II, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Tokmakoff, Andrei — 2009-10-07T03:38:44-04:00

Time-dependent quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. Topics covered include perturbation theory, two-level systems, light-matter interactions, relaxation in quantum systems, correlation functions and linear response theory, and nonlinear spectroscopy.

21W.777 The Science Essay, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Boiko, Karen — 2009-10-06T08:15:41-04:00

Drawing in part from their own interests and ideas, students write about science within a broad cultural context. Students employ a broad repertoire of literary tools, such as narrative, scene-setting, and attention to larger issues of structure. Students study the work of other science writers, but subject's focus is less critical and analytical than synthetical -- on creating works of substance, grace, and flow that have science and technology as their subjects.

16.982 Bio-Inspired Structures, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Daniel, Leonard — 2009-10-06T08:15:31-04:00

This course is offered for graduate students who are interested in the interdisciplinary study of bio-inspired structures. The intent is to introduce students to newly inspired modern advanced structures and their applications. It aims to link traditional advanced composites to bio-inspired structures and to discuss their generic properties. A link between materials design, strength and structural behavior at different levels (material, element, structural and system levels) is made. For each level, various concepts will be introduced. The importance of structural, dynamic, thermodynamic and kinetic theories related to such processing is highlighted. The pedagogy is based on active learning and a balance of guest lectures and hands-on activities.

18.336 Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Seibold, Benjamin — 2009-10-06T08:15:22-04:00

Advanced introduction to applications and theory of numerical methods for solution of differential equations, especially of physically-arising partial differential equations, with emphasis on the fundamental ideas underlying various methods. Topics include finite differences, spectral methods, finite elements, well-posedness and stability, particle methods and lattice gases, boundary and nonlinear instabilities.

18.726 Algebraic Geometry, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Kedlaya, Kiran — 2009-10-02T12:28:34-04:00

This course provides an introduction to the language of schemes, properties of morphisms, and sheaf cohomology. Together with 18.725 Algebraic Geometry, students gain an understanding of the basic notions and techniques of modern algebraic geometry.

14.74 Foundations of Development Policy, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Duflo, Esther — 2009-09-30T03:18:06-04:00

Explores the foundations of policy making in developing countries. Goal is to spell out various policy options and to quantify the trade-offs between them. Special emphasis on education, health, gender, fertility, adoption of technological innovation, and the markets for land, credit, and labor.

14.282 Organizational Economics, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Baker, George — 2009-09-30T03:17:57-04:00

This course in organizational economics prepares doctoral students for further study in the field. The course introduces the classic papers and some recent research. The material is organized into the following modules: boundaries of the firm, employment in organizations, decision-making in organizations, and structures and processes in organizations. Each class session covers a few leading papers. This course was joint-taught between faculty of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. The Harvard course is Economics 2670 Organizational Economics.

14.30 Introduction to Statistical Methods in Economics, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Menzel, Konrad — 2009-09-30T03:17:50-04:00

This course will provide a solid foundation in probability and statistics for economists and other social scientists. We will emphasize topics needed for further study of econometrics and provide basic preparation for 14.32. Topics include elements of probability theory, sampling theory, statistical estimation, and hypothesis testing.

21A.355J The Anthropology of Biology, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Helmreich, Stefan — 2009-09-30T03:17:37-04:00

If the twentieth century was the century of physics, the twenty-first promises to be the century of biology. This subject examines the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of biology in the age of genomics, biotechnological enterprise, biodiversity conservation, pharmaceutical bioprospecting, and synthetic biology. Although we examine such social concerns as bioterrorism, genetic modification, and cloning, this is not a class in bioethics, but rather an anthropological inquiry into how the substances and explanations of biology — increasingly cellular, molecular, genetic, and informatic — are changing, and with them broader ideas about the relationship between "nature" and "culture." Looking at such cultural artifacts as cell lines, biodiversity databases, and artificial life models, and using primary sources in biology, social studies of the life sciences, and literary and cinematic materials, we rephrase Erwin Schrödinger's famous 1944 question, "What Is Life?" to ask, in the early 2000s, "What Is Life Becoming?"

11.337J Urban Design Policy and Action, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Inam, Aseem — 2009-09-29T02:02:46-04:00

In this course we examine the relationship between public policy and urban design through readings, discussions, presentations, and papers. We also analyze the ways in which policies shape cities, and investigate how governments implement urban design. Students gain a critical understanding of both the complex system of governance within which urban design occurs and the effective tools available for creative intervention.

4.696 A Global History of Architecture Writing Seminar, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Jarzombek, Mark — 2009-09-29T02:02:15-04:00

This course will study the question of Global Architecture from the point of view of producing a set of lectures on that subject. The course will be run in the form of a writing seminar, except that students will be asked to prepare for the final class an hour-long lecture for an undergraduate survey course. During the semester, students will study the debates about where to locate "the global" and do some comparative analysis of various textbooks. The topic of the final lecture will be worked on during the semester. For that lecture, students will be asked to identify the themes of the survey course, and hand in the bibliography and reading list for their lecture.

6.868J The Society of Mind, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Minsky, Marvin — 2009-09-28T04:53:25-04:00

Introduction to a theory that tries to explain how minds are made from collections of simpler processes. Treats such aspects of thinking as vision, language, learning, reasoning, memory, consciousness, ideals, emotions, and personality. Incorporates ideas from psychology, artificial intelligence, and computer science to resolve theoretical issues such as wholes vs parts, structural vs functional descriptions, declarative vs procedural representations, symbolic vs connectionist models, and logical vs common-sense theories of learning.

11.941 Learning by Comparison: First World/Third World Cities, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Inam, Aseem — 2009-09-28T04:53:12-04:00

The primary purpose of this seminar is to enable students to craft approaches to so-called "First World" / "Third World" city comparisons that are theoretically sophisticated, methodologically rigorous, contextually grounded, and significantly beneficial. Since there exists very little literature and very few projects which compare “First World” and “Third World” cities in a sophisticated and genuinely useful manner, the seminar is structured around a series of readings, case studies, and discussions to assist students in becoming mindful of the potential and pitfalls of comparative analysis, the types of data, the methods of analysis, and the urban issues or sectors which may benefit the most from such approaches.

1.201J Transportation Systems Analysis: Demand and Economics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Ben-Akiva, Moshe — 2009-09-15T10:51:12-04:00

Introduces transportation systems analysis, stressing demand and economic aspects. Covers the key principles governing transportation planning, investment, operations and maintenance. Introduces the microeconomic concepts central to transportation systems. Topics covered include economic theories of the firm, the consumer, and the market, demand models, discrete choice analysis, cost models and production functions, and pricing theory. Application to transportation systems include congestion pricing, technological change, resource allocation, market structure and regulation, revenue forecasting, public and private transportation finance, and project evaluation; covering urban passenger transportation, freight, aviation and intelligent transportation systems. The main objective of this course is to give broad insight into the different facets of transportation systems, while providing a solid introduction to transportation demand and cost analyses. As part of the core in the Master of Science in Transportation program, the course will not focus on a specific transportation mode but will use the various modes to apply the theoretical and analytical concepts presented in the lectures and readings.

11.125 Introduction to Education: Understanding and Evaluating Education, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Klopfer, Eric — 2009-09-10T12:23:13-04:00

This class uses K-12 classroom experiences, along with student-centered classroom activities and student-led classes, to explore issues in schools and education. Students in this course spend time each week observing pre-college math and science classes. Topics of study include design and implementation of curriculum, addressing the needs of a diversity of students, standards in math and science, student misconceptions, methods of instruction, the digital divide, teaching through different media, and student assessment.

9.71 Functional MRI of High-Level Vision, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Kanwisher, Nancy — 2009-09-10T12:23:03-04:00

Covers the basics of fMRI, the strengths and limitations of fMRI compared to other techniques, and the design and analysis of fMRI experiments, focusing primarily on experiments on high-level vision. Upon completion, students should be able to understand and critique published fMRI papers, have a good grasp on what is known about high-level vision from fMRI, and design their own fMRI experiments.

6.00 Introduction to Computer Science and Programming, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Guttag, John — 2009-09-10T12:22:44-04:00

This subject is aimed at students with little or no programming experience. It aims to provide students with an understanding of the role computation can play in solving problems. It also aims to help students, regardless of their major, to feel justifiably confident of their ability to write small programs that allow them to accomplish useful goals. The class will use the Python™ programming language.

8.512 Theory of Solids II, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Lee, Patrick — 2009-09-10T12:22:32-04:00

This is the second term of a theoretical treatment of the physics of solids. Topics covered include linear response theory; the physics of disorder; superconductivity; the local moment and itinerant magnetism; the Kondo problem and Fermi liquid theory.

21L.701 Literary Interpretation: Literature and Urban Experience, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Brouillette, Sarah — 2009-09-10T01:48:17-04:00

Introduces practice and theory of literary criticism. Seminar focuses on topics such as the history of critical methods and techniques, and the continuity of certain subjects in literary history. Instruction and practice in oral and written communication. Topic: Theory and Use of Figurative Language.

12.620J Classical Mechanics: A Computational Approach, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Wisdom, Jack — 2009-09-10T01:47:49-04:00

Classical mechanics in a computational framework. Lagrangian formulation. Action, variational principles. Hamilton's principle. Conserved quantities. Hamiltonian formulation. Surfaces of section. Chaos. Liouville's theorem and Poincar, integral invariants. Poincar,-Birkhoff and KAM theorems. Invariant curves. Cantori. Nonlinear resonances. Resonance overlap and transition to chaos. Properties of chaotic motion. Transport, diffusion, mixing. Symplectic integration. Adiabatic invariants. Many-dimensional systems, Arnold diffusion. Extensive use of computation to capture methods, for simulation, and for symbolic analysis.

14.731 Economic History, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Hornbeck, Richard — 2009-09-08T04:25:18-04:00

This course is a survey of world economic history, designed to introduce economics students to the subject matter and methodology of economic history. It is designed to expand the range of empirical settings in students' research by drawing upon historical material and long-run data. Topics are chosen to show a wide variety of historical experience and illuminate the process of industrialization. The emphasis will be on questions related to labor markets and economic growth.

6.013 Electromagnetics and Applications, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Staelin, David — 2009-09-04T03:56:34-04:00

Electromagnetic phenomena are explored in modern applications including wireless communications, circuits, computer interconnects and peripherals, optical fiber links and components, microwave communications and radar, antennas, sensors, micro-electromechanical systems, and power generation and transmission. Fundamentals include quasistatic and dynamic solutions to Maxwell's equations; waves, radiation, and diffraction; coupling to media and structures; guided and unguided waves; resonance; and forces, power, and energy.

11.127J Computer Games and Simulations for Investigation and Education, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Klopfer, Eric — 2009-08-28T02:58:28-04:00

In this project-based course, students from all disciplines are encouraged to understand how we learn from interactive computer environments, and delve into the process of designing and understanding simulations and games for learning.

18.440 Probability and Random Variables, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Dudley, Richard — 2009-08-21T05:31:44-04:00

This course introduces students to probability and random variables. Topics include distribution functions, binomial, geometric, hypergeometric, and Poisson distributions. The other topics covered are uniform, exponential, normal, gamma and beta distributions; conditional probability; Bayes theorem; joint distributions; Chebyshev inequality; law of large numbers; and central limit theorem.

18.969 Topics in Geometry: Mirror Symmetry, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Auroux, Denis — 2009-08-20T11:32:17-04:00

Content varies from year to year. Topic for spring 2003: Introduction to integrable systems, with connections to loop groups and harmonic maps. Further topics may include a discussion of recent results on special Lagrangian submanifolds.

18.443 Statistics for Applications, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Dudley, Richard — 2009-08-20T03:52:09-04:00

A broad treatment of statistics, concentrating on specific statistical techniques used in science and industry. Topics: hypothesis testing and estimation. Confidence intervals, chi-square tests, nonparametric statistics, analysis of variance, regression, and correlation. Treatment more oriented toward application and less toward theory than 18.441.

2.61 Internal Combustion Engines, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Cheng, Wai — 2009-08-17T04:53:24-04:00

Fundamentals of how the design and operation of internal combustion engines affect their performance, operation, fuel requirements, and environmental impact. Study of fluid flow, thermodynamics, combustion, heat transfer and friction phenomena, and fuel properties, relevant to engine power, efficiency, and emissions. Examination of design features and operating characteristics of different types of internal combustion engines: spark-ignition, diesel, stratified-charge, and mixed-cycle engines. Engine Laboratory project. For graduate and senior undergraduate students.

9.01 Introduction to Neuroscience, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Seung, Sebastian — 2009-07-20T09:21:25-04:00

Relation of structure and function at various levels of neuronal integration. Topics include: functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, sensory and motor systems, centrally programmed behavior, sensory systems, sleep and dreaming, motivation and reward, emotional displays of various types, "higher functions" and the neocortex, and neural processes in learning and memory. In order to improve writing skills in describing experiments and critiquing published research in neuroscience, students are required to complete four homework assignments and one literature review with revision.

18.409 Topics in Theoretical Computer Science: An Algorithmist's Toolkit, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Kelner, Jonathan — 2009-07-17T04:25:21-04:00

Study of an area of current interest in theoretical computer science. Topic varies from term to term.

6.854J Advanced Algorithms, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Goemans, Michel — 2009-07-17T10:18:08-04:00

A first-year graduate course in algorithms. Emphasizes fundamental algorithms and advanced methods of algorithmic design, analysis, and implementation. Data structures. Network flows. Linear programming. Computational geometry. Approximation algorithms. Alternate years.

5.36 Biochemistry Laboratory, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Elizabeth Vogel Taylor — 2009-07-16T05:08:01-04:00

The course deals primarily with biochemistry laboratory techniques. There are two laboratory modules: Protein Expression and Isolation of DNA, and DNA Mutagenesis and Kinase Activity Assays. This class is part of the new laboratory curriculum in the MIT Department of Chemistry. Undergraduate Research-Inspired Experimental Chemistry Alternatives (URIECA) introduces students to cutting edge research topics in a modular format.

21A.215 Medical Anthropology: Culture, Society, and Ethics in Disease and Health, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Jackson, Jean — 2009-07-16T05:07:41-04:00

Examination of how medicine is practiced cross-culturally, with particular emphasis on Western biomedicine. Analysis of medical practice as a cultural system, focusing on the human, as opposed to the biological, side of things. Also, examines how we and people in other cultures think of disease, health, body, and mind.

2.626 Fundamentals of Photovoltaics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Buonassisi, Anthony — 2009-07-16T05:07:32-04:00

In this course students will learn how solar cells convert light into electricity, how solar cells are manufactured, how solar cells are evaluated, what technologies are currently on the market, and how to evaluate the risk and potential of existing and emerging solar cell technologies. We examine the potential & drawbacks of currently manufactured technologies (single- and multi-crystalline silicon, micromorph tandem cells, CdTe, CIGS, CPV, PVT), as well as pre-commercial technologies (organics, biomimetic, organic/inorganic hybrid, and nanostructure-based solar cells). Hands-on laboratory sessions explore how a solar cell works in practice. We scrutinize what limits solar cell performance and cost, and the major hurdles — technological, economic, and political — towards widespread substitution of fossil fuels. Students will apply this knowledge towards developing and critiquing a solar energy technology prospectus.

SP.414 Gender and Media Studies: Women and the Media, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Surkan, Kim — 2009-07-14T05:14:12-04:00

This course examines representations of race, class, gender, and sexual identity in the media. We will be considering issues of authorship, spectatorship, (audience) and the ways in which various media content (film, television, print journalism, advertising) enables, facilitates, and challenges these social constructions in society. In addition, we will examine how gender and race affects the production of media, and discuss the impact of new media and digital media and how it has transformed access and participation, moving contemporary media users from a traditional position of “readers” to “writers” and/or commentators. Students will analyze gendered and racialized language and embodiment as it is produced online in blogs and vlogs, avatars, and in the construction of cyberidentities. The course provides an introduction to feminist approaches to media studies by drawing from work in feminist film theory, journalism, cultural studies, gender and politics, and cyberfeminism.

3.021J Introduction to Modeling and Simulation, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Buehler, Markus — 2009-07-13T02:57:44-04:00

This course explores the basic concepts of computer modeling and simulation in science and engineering. We'll use techniques and software for simulation, data analysis and visualization. Continuum, mesoscale, atomistic and quantum methods are used to study fundamental and applied problems in physics, chemistry, materials science, mechanics, engineering, and biology. Examples drawn from the disciplines above are used to understand or characterize complex structures and materials, and complement experimental observations.

16.346 Astrodynamics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Battin, Richard — 2009-07-13T02:57:24-04:00

Fundamentals of astrodynamics; the two-body orbital initial-value problem and boundary-value problems with applications to space vehicle navigation and guidance for lunar and planetary exploration. Topics: celestial mechanics, Kepler's problem, Lambert's problem, orbit determination, variation of parameters, and mission planning. Selected applications from the Apollo and Space Shuttle Programs

16.660 Introduction to Lean Six Sigma Methods, January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Haggerty, Al — 2009-07-10T04:12:11-04:00

This course introduces the fundamental Lean Six Sigma principles that underlay modern continuous improvement approaches for industry, government and other organizations. Lean emerged from the Japanese automotive industry, particularly Toyota, and is focused on the creation of value through the relentless elimination of waste. Six Sigma is a quality system developed at Motorola which focuses on elimination of variation from all processes. The basic principles have been applied to a wide range of organizations and sectors to improve quality, productivity, customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, time-to-market and financial performance.

MAS.965 NextLab I: Designing Mobile Technologies for the Next Billion Users, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Rotberg, Jhonatan — 2009-07-08T11:25:19-04:00

Supplementary work on individual or group basis. Registration subject to prior arrangement for subject matter and supervision by staff.

21M.732 Beginning Costume Design and Construction, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Cocuzzo Held, Leslie — 2009-07-07T07:50:48-04:00

Intermediate workshop designed for students who have a basic understanding of the principles of theatrical design and who want a more intensive study of costume design and the psychology of clothing. Students develop designs that emerge through a process of character analysis, based on the script and directorial concept. Period research, design, and rendering skills are fostered through practical exercises. Instruction in basic costume construction, including drafting and draping, provide tools for students to produce final projects.

15.277 Special Seminar in Communications: Leadership and Personal Effectiveness Coaching, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Kelly, Christine — 2009-07-01T03:41:43-04:00

This course builds on the work done concurrently in 15.280 Communication for Managers and 15.311 Organizational Processes in the first semester of the MBA program. 15.280 is offered for 6 units and 15.277 provides an additional 3 units for a total of 9 units in Managerial Communication. 15.277 acts as a lab component to 15.280 and provides students additional opportunities to hone their communication skills through a variety of in-class exercises. Emphasis is on both individual and team communication.

SP.291 Learning Seminar: Experiments in Education, Spring 2003 (MIT)

Rising, James — 2009-07-01T01:14:57-04:00

This seminar explores experiments in education and discusses how education and learning might be done, through reading and discussion. This seminar is not to be a survey of experiments in education. Its goal is to determine how learning should happen and what kinds of contexts allow it to happen.

21L.007 World Literatures: Travel Writing, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Fuller, Mary — 2009-06-30T04:01:45-04:00

World Literatures will focus on the concept of the contact zone. What happens when cultures with different ideologies and norms come into contact with each other through exploration and colonization? We will examine how the complex issues surrounding race, gender, language and power are represented in both poetry and prose from African, Caribbean and South Asian perspectives. Our discussions will focus on not only the historical situations that these texts represent, but also the literary conventions these writers use to express these unique stories.

12.S56 GPS: Where Are You?, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Herring, Thomas — 2009-06-30T01:09:51-04:00

This is a freshman advising seminar. The professor of a FAS is the first year advisor to the (no more than 8) students in the seminar. The use of Global Positioning System (GPS) in a wide variety of applications has exploded in the last few years. In this seminar we will explore how GPS works, the range of applications, and the conflict between civilian users and military planners. This seminar is followed by a UROP research project in the spring semester where results from precise GPS measurements will be analyzed and displayed on the Web.

HST.583 Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Data Acquisition and Analysis, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Gollub, Randy — 2009-06-30T10:19:09-04:00

Provides information relevant to the conduct and interpretation of human brain mapping studies. Provides in-depth coverage of the physics of image formation, mechanisms of image contrast, and the physiological basis for image signals. Parenchymal and cerebrovascular neuroanatomy and application of sophisticated structural analysis algorithms for segmentation and registration of functional data are discussed. Additional topics include fMRI experimental design including block design, event related and exploratory data analysis methods, and building and applying statistical models for fMRI data. Human subject issues including informed consent, institutional review board requirements and safety in the high field environment are also presented. Probability, linear algebra, differential equations, and introductory or college-level subjects in neurobiology, physiology, and physics is required.

21L.463 Renaissance Literature, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Fuller, Mary — 2009-06-30T10:18:38-04:00

Readings are organized around topics (Renaissance Self-Fashioning, Courtship and Courtiership, Gender and the Emerging Individual) or literary genres (lyric, epic, drama, prose). Works drawn primarily from the Italian and English Renaissance, and may include such figures as Petrarch, Shakespeare, More, Jonson, Machiavelli, Castiglione, Milton, Spenser, Bacon, Donne, and Sidney.

6.094 Introduction to MATLAB®, January (IAP) 2009 (MIT)

Scepanovic, Danilo — 2009-06-30T10:18:17-04:00

This course provides an aggressively gentle introduction to MATLAB. It is designed to give students fluency in MATLAB, including popular toolboxes. The course consists of interactive lectures with a computer running MATLAB for each student. Problem-based MATLAB assignments are given which require significant time on MATLAB.

12.307 Weather and Climate Laboratory, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Marshall, John — 2009-06-30T10:17:57-04:00

A laboratory subject intended to illustrate, by means of hands-on projects, the basic dynamical and physical principles which govern the general circulation of the atmosphere and the day-to-day sequence of weather events. Real-time meteorological observations are studied together with laboratory fluid experiments. Projects based on real-time observations stress the analysis and dynamical interpretation of the real phenomena, while complementary rotating tank experiments stress planning and testing of ideas in a more controlled laboratory environment. Written critical summaries of the results of each project and oral presentations are an integral part of the subject.

6.642 Continuum Electromechanics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Zahn, Markus — 2009-06-26T05:51:57-04:00

This course focuses on laws, approximations and relations of continuum electromechanics. Topics include mechanical and electromechanical transfer relations, statics and dynamics of electromechanical systems having a static equilibrium, electromechanical flows, and field coupling with thermal and molecular diffusion. Also covered are electrokinetics, streaming interactions, application to materials processing, magnetohydrodynamic and electrohydrodynamic pumps and generators, ferrohydrodynamics, physiochemical systems, heat transfer, continuum feedback control, electron beam devices, and plasma dynamics.

3.23 Electrical, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Materials, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Marzari, Nicola — 2009-06-26T05:42:11-04:00

Origin of electrical, magnetic and optical properties of materials. Focus on the acquisition of quantum mechanical tools. Analysis of the properties of materials. Presentation of the postulates of quantum mechanics. Examination of the hydrogen atom, simple molecules and bonds, and the behavior of electrons in solids and energy bands. Introduction of the variation principle as a method for the calculation of wavefunctions. Investigation of how and why materials respond to different electrical, magnetic and electromagnetic fields and probes. Study of the conductivity, dielectric function, and magnetic permeability in metals, semiconductors, and insulators. Survey of common devices such as transistors, magnetic storage media, optical fibers.

MAS.110 Fundamentals of Computational Media Design, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Bove, V Michael — 2009-06-25T04:43:04-04:00

Introduces principles of analysis and synthesis in the computational medium. Expressive examples that illustrate the intersection of computation with the traditional arts are developed on a weekly basis. Hands-on design exercises are continually framed and examined in the larger context of contemporary digital art. Limited enrollment.

21W.742J Writing About Race, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Faery, Rebecca Blevins — 2009-06-25T10:59:10-04:00

The issue of race and racial identity have preoccupied many writers throughout the history of the U.S. In this subject, students read Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, Louise Erdrich, William Faulkner, Maxine Hong Kingston, Sandra Cisneros, and Judson Mitcham, among others, as we consider the story of race in its peculiarly American dimensions. The reading, along with the writing of members of the class, is the focus of class discussions. Oral presentations on subjects of individual interest are also part of the class activities. Students explore race and ethnicity in personal essays, pieces of cultural criticism or analysis, or (with permission of instructor) fiction. All written work is read and responded to in class workshops and subsequently revised.

SP.236 Exploring Pharmacology, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Gusman, Mariya — 2009-06-24T03:45:18-04:00

From Abilify to Zyrtec, the world is full of interesting drugs. Such substances have cured diseases, started wars, and ended careers. This seminar will explain how drugs can elicit a range of medicinal and recreational effects. Planned topics include over-the-counter drugs and "dietary supplements," drugs of abuse, treatments for neurological disorders, psychiatric medications, and many more. Prior experience is neither expected nor required, but student participation is essential.

20.453J Biomedical Information Technology, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Dewey, C — 2009-06-24T10:38:44-04:00

This course teaches the design of contemporary information systems for biological and medical data. Examples are chosen from biology and medicine to illustrate complete life cycle information systems, beginning with data acquisition, following to data storage and finally to retrieval and analysis. Design of appropriate databases, client-server strategies, data interchange protocols, and computational modeling architectures. Students are expected to have some familiarity with scientific application software and a basic understanding of at least one contemporary programming language (e.g. C, C++, Java, Lisp, Perl, Python). A major term project is required of all students. This subject is open to motivated seniors having a strong interest in biomedical engineering and information system design with the ability to carry out a significant independent project.

1.061 Transport Processes in the Environment, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Nepf, Heidi — 2009-06-23T04:15:58-04:00

Introduction to momentum and scalar transport in environmental flows, with emphasis given to river and lake systems. Derivation and solutions to the differential form of mass conservation equations. Topics include: molecular and turbulent diffusion, boundary layers, dissolution, phase partitioning, bed-water exchange, air-water exchange, settling and coagulation, buoyancy-driven flows, and stratification in lakes.

MAS.632 Conversational Computer Systems, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Schmandt, Christopher — 2009-06-23T03:03:46-04:00

Interaction with computer systems by voice, including speech synthesis, recognition, and digital recording techniques. Emphasis on human interface design issues and interaction techniques to successfully exploit the speech medium for computer applications, including extensive reading from current research literature. Topics include human speech production and perception, isolated and connected speech recognition, text-to-speech synthesis algorithms, telephone technologies, parsers, and dialogue generation.

9.98 Neuropharmacology, January (IAP) 2009 (MIT)

Tropea, Daniela — 2009-06-23T03:03:13-04:00

The neuropharmacology course will discuss the drug-induced changes in functioning of the nervous system. The specific focus of this course will be to provide a description of the cellular and molecular actions of drugs on synaptic transmission. This course will also refer to specific diseases of the nervous system and their treatment in addition to giving an overview of the techniques used for the study of neuropharmacology.

MAS.963 Special Topics: Computational Camera and Photography, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Raskar, Ramesh — 2009-06-23T03:03:07-04:00

A computational camera attempts to digitally capture the essence of visual information by exploiting the synergistic combination of task-specific optics, illumination, sensors and processing. In this couse we will study this emerging multi-disciplinary field at the intersection of signal processing, applied optics, computer graphics and vision, electronics, art, and online sharing through social networks. If novel cameras can be designed to sample light in radically new ways, then rich and useful forms of visual information may be recorded — beyond those present in traditional protographs. Furthermore, if computational process can be made aware of these novel imaging models, them the scene can be analyzed in higher dimensions and novel aesthetic renderings of the visual information can be synthesized. We will discuss and play with thermal cameras, multi-spectral cameras, high-speed, and 3D range-sensing cameras and camera arrays. We will learn about opportunities in scientific and medical imaging, mobile-phone based photography, camera for HCI and sensors mimicking animal eyes. We will learn about the complete camera pipeline. In several hands-on projects we will build physical imaging prototypes and understand how each stage of the imaging process can be manipulated.

21L.003 Reading Fiction, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Vaeth, Kim — 2009-06-23T03:03:00-04:00

Introduces prose narrative, both short stories and the novel. Examines the construction of narrative and the analysis of literary response.

MAS.160 Signals, Systems and Information for Media Technology, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Bove, V Michael — 2009-06-23T02:57:03-04:00

Fundamentals of signals, systems, and information theory with emphasis on modeling both the audio/visual message and the human recipient. Linear systems, difference equations, Z-transforms, sampling and sampling rate conversion, convolution, filtering, modulation, Fourier analysis, entropy, noise, Shannon's fundamental theorems. Additional topics may include data compression, filter design, and feature detection. Meets with graduate subject MAS.510, but assignments differ.

6.096 Introduction to C++, January (IAP) 2009 (MIT)

Malik, Radhika — 2009-06-23T02:56:39-04:00

This course is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in science, social science and engineering programs who need to learn fundamental programming skills quickly but not in great depth. The course is ideal for undergraduate research positions or summer jobs requiring C++. It is not a class for experienced programmers in C++. Students with no programming background are welcome. Topics include control structures, arrays, functions, classes, objects, file handling and simple algorithms for common tasks. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

6.189 Multicore Programming Primer, January (IAP) 2007 (MIT)

Amarasinghe, Saman — 2009-06-23T02:56:32-04:00

The course serves as an introductory course in parallel programming. It will have a series of lectures on parallel programming concepts as well as a group project providing hands-on experience with parallel programming. The students will have the unique opportunity to use the cutting-edge PLAYSTATION®3 development platform, as they learn how to design and implement exciting applications for multicore architectures. At the end of the course, students will have an understanding of • Fundamental design philosophies that multicore architectures address. • Parallel programming philosophies and emerging best practices.

2.672 Project Laboratory, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Cheng, Wai — 2009-06-23T02:56:19-04:00

Engineering laboratory subject for mechanical engineering juniors and seniors. Major emphasis on interplay between analytical and experimental methods in solution of research and development problems. Communication (written and oral) of results is also a strong component of the course. Groups of two or three students work together on three projects during the term. Limited enrollment. Description from course home page: This is an engineering laboratory subject for mechanical engineering juniors and seniors. Major emphasis is on interplay between analytical and experimental methods in solution of research and development problems. Communication (written and oral) of results is also a strong component of the course. Groups of two or three students work together on three projects during the term.

21M.342 Composing for Jazz Orchestra, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Harvey, Mark — 2009-06-22T01:21:39-04:00

This class explores composition and arrangement for the large jazz ensembles from 1920s foundations to current postmodern practice. Consideration given to a variety of styles and to the interaction of improvisation and composition. Study of works by Basie, Ellington, Evans, Gillespie, Golson, Mingus, Morris, Nelson, Williams, and others. Open rehearsals, workshops, and performances of student compositions by the MIT Festival Jazz Ensemble and the Aardvark Jazz Orchestra.

STS.436 Cold War Science, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Kaiser, David — 2009-06-19T04:25:06-04:00

This seminar examines the history and legacy of the Cold War on American science. It explores scientists' new political roles after World War II, ranging from elite policy makers in the nuclear age to victims of domestic anti Communism. It also examines the changing institutions in which the physical sciences and social sciences were conducted during the postwar decades, investigating possible epistemic effects on forms of knowledge. The subject closes by considering the place of science in the post-Cold War era.

11.482J Regional Socioeconomic Impact Analyses and Modeling, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Polenske, Karen — 2009-06-19T04:21:02-04:00

Reviews regional economic theories and models and provides students with experience in using alternative economic impact assessment models on microcomputers. Problem sets are oriented around infrastructure, housing, energy, and environmental issues. Students work with a client generally in Boston and make a presentation to the client. Emphasis on written and oral presentation skills.

11.482J Regional Socioeconomic Impact Analyses and Modeling, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Polenske, Karen — 2009-06-19T04:20:48-04:00

14.771 Development Economics: Microeconomic Issues and Policy Models, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Banerjee, Abhijit — 2009-06-19T10:27:20-04:00

Agricultural issues: peasant behavior, land tenancy, and interlinked markets. Credit and insurance market problems and institutions. Health, nutrition, and productivity. Gender bias. Education. Technological change. Government failures.

12.003 Atmosphere, Ocean and Climate Dynamics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Ferrari, Raffaele — 2009-06-17T03:24:35-04:00

The laws of classical mechanics and thermodynamics are used to explore how the properties of fluids on a rotating Earth manifest themselves in, and help shape, the global patterns of atmospheric winds, ocean currents, and the climate of the Earth. Theoretical discussion focuses on the physical processes involved. Underlying mechanisms are illustrated through laboratory demonstrations, using a rotating table, and through analysis of atmospheric and oceanic data.

12.842 Past and Present Climate, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Wunsch, Carl — 2009-06-17T03:24:24-04:00

Meets with graduate subject 12.840, but assignments differ. See description under subject 12.840. From the course home page: Course Description This course introduces students to climate studies, including beginnings of the solar system, time scales, and climate in human history; methods for detecting climate change, including proxies, ice cores, instrumental records, and time series analysis; physical and chemical processes in climate, including primordial atmosphere, ozone chemistry, carbon and oxygen cycles, and heat and water budgets; internal feedback mechanisms, including ice, aerosols, water vapor, clouds, and ocean circulation; climate forcing, including orbital variations, volcanism, plate tectonics, and solar variability; climate models and mechanisms of variability, including energy balance, coupled models, and global ocean and atmosphere models; and outstanding problems.

21L.005 Introduction to Drama, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Fleche, Anne — 2009-06-17T03:24:13-04:00

Drama might be described as a game played with something sacred. It tells stories that go right to the heart of what people believe about themselves. And it is enacted in the moment, which means it has an added layer of interpretive mystery and playfulness, or "theatricality." This course will explore theater and theatricality across periods and cultures, through intensive engagement with texts and with our own readings.

24.260 Topics in Philosophy: David Lewis, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Rayo, Agustin — 2009-06-16T04:26:13-04:00

The class will be devoted to the work of David Lewis, one of the most exciting and influential philosophers of the late twentieth century. We will have seminar-style discussions about his work on counterfactuals, time, causation, probability, and decision-theory.

5.80 Small-Molecule Spectroscopy and Dynamics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Field, Robert — 2009-06-16T04:25:18-04:00

The goal of this course is to illustrate the spectroscopy of small molecules in the gas phase: quantum mechanical effective Hamiltonian models for rotational, vibrational, and electronic structure; transition selection rules and relative intensities; diagnostic patterns and experimental methods for the assignment of non-textbook spectra; breakdown of the Born-Oppenheimer approximation (spectroscopic perturbations); the stationary phase approximation; nondegenerate and quasidegenerate perturbation theory (van Vleck transformation); qualitative molecular orbital theory (Walsh diagrams); the notation of atomic and molecular spectroscopy.

21L.703 Studies in Drama: Too Hot to Handle: Forbidden Plays in Modern America, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Fleche, Anne — 2009-06-16T04:25:09-04:00

Unlike film, theater in America does not have a ratings board that censors content. So plays have had more freedom to explore and to transgress normative culture. Yet censorship of the theater has been part of American culture from the beginning, and continues today. How and why does this happen, and who decides whether a play is too dangerous to see or to teach? are plays dangerous? Sinful? Even demonic? In our seminar, we will study plays that have been censored, either legally or extra-legally (i.e. refused production, closed down during production, denied funding, or taken off school reading lists). We'll look at laws, both national and local, relating to the "obscene", as well as unofficial practices, and think about the way censorship operates in American life now. And of course we will study the offending texts, themselves, to find what is really dangerous about them, for ourselves.

6.231 Dynamic Programming and Stochastic Control, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Bertsekas, Dimitri — 2009-06-15T03:18:58-04:00

Sequential decision-making via dynamic programming. Unified approach to optimal control of stochastic dynamic systems and Markovian decision problems. Applications in linear-quadratic control, inventory control, and resource allocation models. Optimal decision making under perfect and imperfect state information. Certainty equivalent and open loop-feedback control, and self-tuning controllers. Infinite horizon problems, successive approximation, and policy iteration. Discounted problems, stochastic shortest path problems, and average cost problems. Optimal stopping, scheduling, and control of queues. Approximations and neurodynamic programming.

24.02 Moral Problems and the Good Life, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Haslanger, Sally — 2009-06-15T03:18:46-04:00

Subject examines classic texts from the history of Western moral philosophy, and their answers to the question of what is the best way to live. These texts include works by Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Hume, Kant, and J. S. Mill. Among the questions that arise are: What is it to have a good life? How important is moral integrity, personal happiness, individual autonomy, and self expression, if one is to live in the best way that one can? Emphasis on close analysis and the evaluation of philosophical ideas and arguments.

4.510 Digital Design Fabrication, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Sass, Lawrence — 2009-06-15T03:18:34-04:00

This course will guide graduate students through the process of using rapid prototyping and CAD/CAM devices in a studio environment. The class has a theoretical focus on machine use within the process of design. Each student is expected to have completed one graduate level of design computing with a full understanding of solid modeling in CAD. Students are also expected to have completed at least one graduate design studio.

4.500 Introduction to Design Computing, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Sass, Lawrence — 2009-06-15T03:18:01-04:00

This course will introduce students to architectural design and computation through the use of computer modeling, rendering and digital fabrication. The course focuses on teaching architectural design with CAD drawing, 3-D modeling, rendering and rapid prototyping. Students will be required to build computer models that will lead to a full package of architectural explorations with computers. Each semester we will explore the design process of a particular building type and building material. The course also investigates a few design processes of selected architects. The course is critical of design principles and building production methods. Student assignments are graded based on the quality of design, representation and constructability. Great design input is always encouraged.

1.782 Environmental Engineering Masters of Engineering Project, Fall 2007 - Spring 2008 (MIT)

Adams, Eric — 2009-06-12T03:26:23-04:00

Core requirements for Environmental M.Eng. program. Designed to teach about environmental engineering through the use of case studies, computer software tools, and seminars from industrial experts. Case studies provide basis for group project as well as individual thesis. Past case studies have included the MMR Superfund site on Cape Cod; restoration of the Florida Everglades; dredging of Boston Harbor; local watershed trading programs; appropriate wastewater treatment technology for Brazil; point-of-use water treatment for Nepal, Brownfields Development in Providence, RI, and water resource planning for the island of Cyprus. Students must register for 1.782 for Fall term, IAP, and Spring term.

5.111 Principles of Chemical Science, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Drennan, Catherine — 2009-06-03T03:24:23-04:00

Introduction to chemistry, with emphasis on basic principles of atomic and molecular electronic structure, thermodynamics, acid-base and redox equilibria, chemical kinetics, and catalysis. Introduction to the chemistry of biological, inorganic, and organic molecules.

8.21 The Physics of Energy, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Jaffe, Robert — 2009-06-03T03:24:11-04:00

This course is designed to give you the scientific understanding you need to answer questions like - How much energy can we really get from wind? - How does a solar photovoltaic work? - What is an OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Converter) and how does it work? - What is the physics behind global warming? - What makes engines efficient? - How does a nuclear reactor work, and what are the realistic hazards? The course is designed for MIT sophomores, juniors, and seniors who want to understand the fundamental laws and physical processes that govern the sources, extraction, transmission, storage, degradation, and end uses of energy.

17.462 Innovation in Military Organizations, Fall 2005 (MIT)

Posen, Barry — 2009-06-01T04:44:50-04:00

Explores the origins, rate, and impact of innovations in military organizations, doctrine, and weapons. Emphasis on organization theory approaches. Comparisons with nonmilitary and non-US experience included.

15.280 Communication for Managers, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Hartman, Neal — 2009-06-01T04:44:44-04:00

Writing and speaking skills necessary for a career in management. Students polish communication strategies and methods through discussion, examples, and practice. Several written and oral assignments, most based on material from other subjects and from career development activities. Schedule and curriculum coordinated with 15.311 Organizational Processes class. Restricted to first-year Sloan School of Management graduate students. Students may also enroll in 15.277 Special Seminar in Communication: Leadership and Personal Effectiveness Coaching. 15.280 is offered for 6 units and 15.277 provides an additional 3 units for a total of 9 units in Managerial Communication. 15.277 acts as a lab component to 15.280 and provides students additional opportunities to hone their communication skills through a variety of in-class exercises.

12.472 Building Earth-like Planets: From Nebular Gas to Ocean Worlds, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Elkins-Tanton, Lindy — 2009-06-01T04:44:30-04:00

Examination of the state of knowledge of planetary formation, beginning with planetary nebulas and continuing through accretion (from gas, to dust, to planetesimals, to planetary embryos, to planets). Processes of planetary differentiation, crust formation, atmospheric degassing, and surface water condensation. Integrated discussions of compositional and physical processes, based upon observations from our solar system and from exoplanets. Focus on terrestrial (rocky and metallic) planets, though more volatile-rich bodies are also examined. Includes regular readings from literature, lectures, discussion, and problem solving.

17.812J Collective Choice I, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Snyder, James — 2009-06-01T04:44:22-04:00

This is an applied theory course covering topics in the political economy of democratic countries. This course examines political institutions from a rational choice perspective. The now burgeoning rational choice literature on legislatures, bureaucracies, courts, and elections constitutes the chief focus. Some focus will be placed on institutions from a comparative and/or international perspective.

21H.466 Imperial and Revolutionary Russia: Culture and Politics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Wood, Elizabeth — 2009-06-01T04:44:11-04:00

Analyzes Russia's social, cultural, political heritage; Eurasian imperialism; and autocracy. Compares reforming and revolutionary impulses in the context of serfdom, the rise of the intelligentsia, and debates over capitalism. Focuses on historical and literary texts, and especially the intersections between the two.

21W.742J Writing About Race: Narratives of Multiraciality, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Ragusa, Kym — 2009-05-26T05:26:25-04:00

In this course we will read essays, novels, memoirs, and graphic texts, and view documentary and experimental films and videos which explore race from the standpoint of the multiracial. Examining the varied work of multiracial authors and filmmakers such as Danzy Senna, Ruth Ozeki, Kip Fulbeck, James McBride and others, we will focus not on how multiracial people are seen or imagined by the dominant culture, but instead on how they represent themselves. How do these authors approach issues of family, community, nation, language and history? What can their work tell us about the complex interconnections between race, gender, class, sexuality, and citizenship? Is there a relationship between their experiences of multiraciality and a willingness to experiment with form and genre? In addressing these and other questions, we will endeavor to think and write more critically and creatively about race as a social category and a lived experience.

14.452 Economic Growth, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Acemoglu, K. Daron — 2009-05-22T04:56:40-04:00

The basic machines of macroeconomics. Ramsey, Solow, Samuelson-Diamond, RBCs, ISLM, Mundell-Fleming, Fischer-Taylor. How they work, what shortcuts they take, and how they can be used. Half-term subject.

21F.401 German I, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Weise, Peter — 2009-05-22T04:56:34-04:00

Introduction to German language and culture. Acquisition of vocabulary and grammatical concepts through active communication. Audio, video, and printed materials provide direct exposure to authentic German language and culture. Self-paced language lab program is fully coordinated with textbook/workbook. Development of effective basic communication skills. For graduate credit see 21F.451.

PE.550 Designing Your Life, January (IAP) 2007 (MIT)

Jordan, Gabriella — 2009-05-19T04:02:48-04:00

This course provides an exciting, eye-opening, and thoroughly useful inquiry into what it takes to live an extraordinary life, on your own terms. The instructors address what it takes to succeed, to be proud of your life, and to be happy in it. Participants tackle career satisfaction, money, body, vices, and relationship to themselves. They learn how to confront issues in their lives, how to live life, and how to learn from it. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month. This not-for-credit course is sponsored by the Department of Science, Technology, and Society. A similar, semester-long version of this course is taught in the Sloan Fellows Program. Acknowledgment The instructors would like to thank Prof. David Mindell for his sponsorship of this course, his hopes for its continued expansion, and his commitment to the well-being of MIT students.

3.22 Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Spring 2008 (MIT)

van Vliet, Krystyn — 2009-05-19T04:02:44-04:00

Phenomenology of mechanical behavior of materials at the macroscopic level. Relationship of mechanical behavior to material structure and mechanisms of deformation and failure. Topics include: elasticity, viscoelasticity, plasticity, creep, fracture, and fatigue. Case studies and examples drawn from a variety of classes of materials including: metals, ceramics, polymers, thin films, composites, and cellular materials.

SP.292 Writing Workshop, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Young, Jessica — 2009-05-15T04:00:37-04:00

MIT students are challenged daily to solve for x, to complete four problem sets, two papers, and prepare for an exam worth 30% of their grade... all in one night. When they do stop to breathe, it's for a shower or a meal. What does this have to do with Creative Writing? Everything. Creative Writing and MIT go together better than you might imagine.

8.012 Physics I: Classical Mechanics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Burgasser, Adam — 2009-05-12T01:17:05-04:00

Elementary mechanics, presented at greater depth than in 8.01. Newton's laws, concepts of momentum, energy, angular momentum, rigid body motion, and non-inertial systems. Uses elementary calculus freely. Concurrent registration in a math subject more advanced than 18.01 is recommended. In addition to the theoretical subject matter, several experiments in classical mechanics are performed by the students in the laboratory.

12.740 Paleoceanography, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Boyle, Edward — 2009-05-12T01:16:44-04:00

This class examines tools, data, and ideas related to past climate changes as seen in marine, ice core, and continental records. The most recent climate changes (mainly the past 500,000 years, ranging up to about 2 million years ago) will be emphasized. Quantitative tools for the examination of paleoceanographic data will be introduced (statistics, factor analysis, time series analysis, simple climatology).

21W.730-5 Writing on Contemporary Issues: Culture Shock! Writing, Editing, and Publishing in Cyberspace, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Faery, Blevins Rebecca — 2009-05-07T02:18:34-04:00

This course is an introduction to writing prose for a public audience—specifically, prose that is both critical and personal, that features your ideas, your perspective, and your voice to engage readers. The focus of our reading and your writing will be American popular culture, broadly defined. That is, you will write essays that critically engage elements and aspects of contemporary American popular culture and that do so via a vivid personal voice and presence. In the coming weeks we will read a number of pieces that address current issues in popular culture. These readings will address a great many subjects from the contemporary world to launch and elaborate an argument or position or refined observation. And you yourselves will write a great deal, attending always to the ways your purpose in writing and your intended audience shape what and how you write. The end result of our collaborative work will be a new edition, the seventh, of Culture Shock!, an online magazine of writings on American popular culture, which we will post on the web for the worldwide reading public to enjoy.

14.384 Time Series Analysis, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Mikusheva, Anna — 2009-05-07T02:18:30-04:00

The course provides a survey of the theory and application of time series methods in econometrics. Topics covered will include univariate stationary and non-stationary models, vector autoregressions, frequency domain methods, models for estimation and inference in persistent time series, and structural breaks. We will cover different methods of estimation and inferences of modern dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models (DSGE): simulated method of moments, maximum likelihood and Bayesian approach. The empirical applications in the course will be drawn primarily from macroeconomics.

8.821 String Theory, Fall 2008 (MIT)

McGreevy, John — 2009-05-07T02:18:24-04:00

An introduction to string theory. Basics of conformal field theory. Light-cone and covariant quantization of the relativistic bosonic string. Quantization and spectrum of supersymmetric ten-dimensional string theories. T-duality and D-branes. Toroidal compactification and orbifolds. Eleven-dimensional supergravity and M-theory.

11.433J Real Estate Economics, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Wheaton, William — 2009-05-07T02:18:10-04:00

Focuses on developing an understanding of the factors that shape and influence markets for real property. Includes demographic analysis, patterns of regional growth, construction cycles, urban location theory, and modeling techniques for predicting demand.

17.541 Japanese Politics and Society, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Samuels, Richard — 2009-05-07T02:17:55-04:00

This class is designed for students seeking a fundamental understanding of Japanese history, politics, culture, and the economy. “Raw Fish 101” (as it is often labeled) combines lectures, seminar discussion, small-team case studies, and web page construction exercises, all designed to shed light on contemporary Japan.

21W.745 Advanced Essay Workshop, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Faery, Rebecca Blevins — 2009-05-07T02:17:27-04:00

For students with experience in writing nonfictional prose. Advanced study of rhetorical strategies and techniques of prose style. Considerable writing and revision required. In addtion to analyzing the work of class members, students read and discuss the work of distinguished essayists chosen to represent a range of prose styles, subjects, and biographical patterns.

21W.730-4 Writing on Contemporary Issues: Food for Thought: Writing and Reading about the Cultures of Food, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Boiko, Karen — 2009-05-07T02:17:23-04:00

"What people do with food is an act that reveals how they construe the world." Marcella Hazan, The Classic Italian Cookbook If you are what you eat, what are you? Food is at once the stuff of life and a potent symbol; it binds us to the earth, to our families, and to our cultures. In this class, we explore many of the fascinating issues that surround food as both material fact and personal and cultural symbol. We read essays by Toni Morrison, Michael Pollan, Wendell Berry, and others on such topics as family meals, eating as an "agricultural act" (Berry), slow food, and food's ability to awaken us to "our own powers of enjoyment" (M.F.K. Fisher). We will also read Pollan's most recent book, In Defense of Food, and discuss the issues it raises as well as its rhetorical strategies. Assigned essays will grow out of memories and the texts we read, and may include personal narrative as well as essays that depend on research. Revision of essays and workshop review of writing in progress are an important part of the class. Each student will make one oral presentation in this class.

12.479 Trace-Element Geochemistry, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Frey, Frederick — 2009-05-05T11:02:20-04:00

Focuses on element distribution in rocks and minerals using data obtained from natural and experimental systems. Emphasizes models describing trace-element partitioning and applications of trace-element geochemistry to problems in igneous geology. From the course home page: Course Description The emphasis of this course is to use Trace Element Geochemistry to understand the origin and evolution of igneous rocks. The approach is to discuss the parameters that control partitioning of trace elements between phases and to develop models for the partitioning of trace elements between phases in igneous systems, especially between minerals and melt. Subsequently, published papers that are examples of utilizing Trace Element Geochemistry are read and discussed.

21L.001 Foundations of Western Culture: Homer to Dante, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Bahr, Arthur — 2009-05-05T11:02:14-04:00

Studies a broad range of texts essential to understanding the two great sources of Western conceptions of the world and humanity's place within it: the ancient world of Greece and Rome and the Judeo-Christian world that challenged and absorbed it. Readings vary but usually include works by Homer, Sophocles, Aristotle, Plato, Virgil, St. Augustine, and Dante.

14.123 Microeconomic Theory III, Spring 2009 (MIT)

Eso, Peter — 2009-05-05T11:02:07-04:00

General equilibrium, capital theory, incomplete markets, externalities, public goods.

14.121 Microeconomic Theory I, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Pathak, Parag — 2009-04-22T02:10:49-04:00

Theories of production and individual choice (under certainty and uncertainty); markets and competition; tools of comparative statics and their application to price theory.

11.958 Getting Things Implemented: Strategy, People, Performance, and Leadership, January (IAP) 2009 (MIT)

de Souza Briggs, Xavier — 2009-04-22T02:10:42-04:00

An old saying holds that “there are many more good ideas in the world than good ideas implemented.” This is a case-based introduction to the fundamentals of effective implementation. Developed with the needs and interests of planners—but also with broad potential application—in mind, this course is a fast-paced, case-driven introduction to developing strategy for organizations and projects, managing operations, recruiting and developing talent, taking calculated risks, measuring results (performance), and leading adaptive change, for example where new mental models and habits are required but also challenging to promote. Our cases are set in the U.S. and the developing world and in multiple work sectors (urban redevelopment, transportation, workforce development, housing, etc.). We will draw on public, private, and nonprofit implementation concepts and experience.

18.727 Topics in Algebraic Geometry: Algebraic Surfaces, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Kumar, Abhinav — 2009-04-20T03:24:01-04:00

The main aims of this seminar will be to go over the classification of surfaces (Enriques-Castelnuovo for characteristic zero, Bombieri-Mumford for characteristic p), while working out plenty of examples, and treating their geometry and arithmetic as far as possible.

21M.351 Music Composition, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Child, Peter — 2009-04-20T03:20:30-04:00

Directed composition of larger forms of original writing involving voices and/or instruments. Includes a weekly seminar in composition for the presentation and discussion of student work in progress. Students are expected to produce at least one substantive work, performed in public, by the end of the term. Contemporary compositions and major works from twentieth-century music literature are studied. Meets with graduate subject 21M.505, but assignments vary.

2.161 Signal Processing: Continuous and Discrete, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Rowell, Derek — 2009-04-20T03:20:23-04:00

Subject provides a solid theoretical foundation for the analysis and processing of experimental data, and real-time experimental control methods. Includes spectral analysis, filter design, system identification, simulation in continuous and discrete-time domains. Emphasis on practical problems with laboratory exercises. Subject is designated as a d'Arbeloff Laboratory "gateway" subject.

17.486 Japan and East Asian Security, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Samuels, Richard — 2009-04-17T03:24:22-04:00

Explores Japan's role in world orders, past, present, and future. Focuses on Japanese conceptions of security; rearmament debates; the relationship of domestic politics to foreign policy; the impact of Japanese technological and economic transformation at home and abroad; alternative trade and security regimes; and relations with Asian neighbors, Russia, and the alliance with the United States. Seminar culminates in a two-day Japanese-centered crisis simulation, based upon scenarios developed by students.

15.912 Technology Strategy, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Davis, Jason — 2009-04-06T05:42:27-04:00

Outlines tools for formulating and evaluating technology strategy, including an introduction to the economics of technical change, models of technological evolution, and models of organizational dynamics and innovation. Topics covered include: making money from innovation; competition between technologies and the selection of standards; optimal licensing policies; joint ventures; organization of R&D; and theories of diffusion and adoption. Taught using a combination of readings and case studies.

2.094 Finite Element Analysis of Solids and Fluids, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Bathe, Klaus-Jürgen — 2009-04-06T05:20:30-04:00

The objective is to teach in a unified manner the fundamentals of finite element analysis of solids, structures and fluids. This includes the theoretical foundations and appropriate use of finite element methods.

1.010 Uncertainty in Engineering, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Veneziano, Daniele — 2009-04-05T11:14:49-04:00

This course provides an introduction to probability and statistics, with emphasis on engineering applications. Course topics include events and their probability, the Total Probability and Bayes' Theorems, discrete and continuous random variables and vectors, uncertainty propagation and conditional analysis. Second-moment representation of uncertainty, random sampling, estimation of distribution parameters (method of moments, maximum likelihood, Bayesian estimation), and simple and multiple linear regression. Concepts illustrated with examples from various areas of engineering and everyday life.

6.092 Introduction to Software Engineering in Java, January (IAP) 2009 (MIT)

Jones, Evan — 2009-04-05T11:14:41-04:00

This course is an introduction to Java programming and software engineering. It is designed for those who have little or no programming experience in Java and covers concepts useful to 6.005. The focus is on developing high quality, working software that solves real problems. Students will learn the fundamentals of Java, and how to use 3rd party libraries to get more done with less work. Each session includes one hour of lecture and one hour of assisted lab work. Short labs are assigned with each lecture. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

9.013J Cell and Molecular Neurobiology, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Constantine-Paton, Martha — 2009-04-05T11:14:33-04:00

Subject covers all major areas of cellular and molecular neurobiology including excitable cells and membranes, ion channels and receptors, synaptic transmission, cell type determination, axon guidance and targeting, neuronal cell biology, synapse formation and plasticity. Includes lectures and exams, and involves presentation and discussion of primary literature. Focus on major concepts and recent advances in experimental neuroscience.

12.086 Modeling Environmental Complexity, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Rothman, Daniel — 2009-04-05T11:14:28-04:00

This course provides an introduction to the study of environmental phenomena that exhibit both organized structure and wide variability---i.e., complexity. Through focused study of a variety of physical, biological, and chemical problems in conjunction with theoretical models, we learn a series of lessons with wide applicability to understanding the structure and organization of the natural world. Students will also learn how to construct minimal mathematical, physical, and computational models that provide informative answers to precise questions.

18.085 Computational Science and Engineering I, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Strang, Gilbert — 2009-03-31T10:33:33-04:00

This course provides a review of linear algebra, including applications to networks, structures, and estimation, Lagrange multipliers. Also covered are: differential equations of equilibrium; Laplace's equation and potential flow; boundary-value problems; minimum principles and calculus of variations; Fourier series; discrete Fourier transform; convolution; and applications. Note: This course was previously called "Mathematical Methods for Engineers I".

12.010 Computational Methods of Scientific Programming, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Herring, Thomas — 2009-03-09T01:30:52-04:00

This course introduces programming languages and techniques used by physical scientists: FORTRAN, C, C++, Matlab, and Mathematica. Emphasis is placed on program design, algorithm development and verification, and comparative advantages and disadvantages of different languages.

6.111 Introductory Digital Systems Laboratory, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Chandrakasan, Anantha — 2009-03-05T04:08:10-05:00

Lectures and labs on digital logic, flipflops, PALs, counters, timing, synchronization, finite-state machines, and microprogrammed systems prepare students for the design and implementation of a final project of their choice: games, music, digital filters, graphics, etc. Extensive use of VHDL for describing and implementing digital logic designs. Possible use of lab report for Phase II of the Writing Requirement. Six extra units possible via registration for 6.905 after project proposal.

18.712 Introduction to Representation Theory, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Etingof, Pavel — 2009-03-03T04:16:43-05:00

This is a new course, whose goal is to give an undergraduate-level introduction to representation theory (of groups, Lie algebras, and associative algebras). Representation theory is an area of mathematics which, roughly speaking, studies symmetry in linear spaces.

18.705 Commutative Algebra, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Kleiman, Steven — 2009-02-25T03:38:22-05:00

In this course students will learn about Noetherian rings and modules, Hilbert basis theorem, Cayley-Hamilton theorem, integral dependence, Noether normalization, the Nullstellensatz, localization, primary decomposition, DVRs, filtrations, length, Artin rings, Hilbert polynomials, tensor products, and dimension theory.

7.342 Systems Biology: Stochastic Processes and Biological Robustness, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Gore, Jeff — 2009-02-25T03:38:17-05:00

In this seminar, we will discuss some of the main themes that have arisen in the field of systems biology, including the concepts of robustness, stochastic cell-to-cell variability, and the evolution of molecular interactions within complex networks.

5.72 Statistical Mechanics, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Cao, Jianshu — 2009-02-25T03:37:56-05:00

Principles and methods of statistical mechanics. Classical and quantum statistics, grand ensembles, fluctuations, molecular distribution functions, and other topics in equilibrium statistical mechanics. Topics in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics of irreversible processes.

7.341 The DNA Damage Response as a Target for Anti-Cancer Therapy, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Reinhardt, Hans Christian — 2009-02-20T04:35:49-05:00

Cellular responses to DNA damage constitute one of the most important fields in cancer biology. In this class we will analyze classical and recent papers from the primary research literature to gain a profound understand of cell cycle regulation and DNA damage checkpoints that act as powerful emergency brakes to prevent cancer. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

18.704 Seminar in Algebra and Number Theory: Computational Commutative Algebra and Algebraic Geometry, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Kleiman, Steven — 2009-02-17T04:38:10-05:00

In this undergraduate level seminar series topics vary from year to year. Students present and discuss the subject matter, and are provided with instruction and practice in written and oral communication. Some experience with proofs required. The topic for fall 2008: Computational algebra and algebraic geometry.

18.112 Functions of a Complex Variable, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Helgason, Sigurdur — 2009-02-06T03:02:10-05:00

The basic properties of functions of one complex variable. Cauchy's theorem, holomorphic and meromorphic functions, residues, contour integrals, conformal mapping. Infinite series and products, the gamma function, the Mittag-Leffler theorem. Harmonic functions, Dirichlet's problem. Description from course home page: This is an advanced undergraduate course dealing with calculus in one complex variable with geometric emphasis. Since the course Analysis I (18.100B) is a prerequisite, topological notions like compactness, connectedness, and related properties of continuous functions are taken for granted. This course offers biweekly problem sets with solutions, two term tests and a final exam, all with solutions.

5.60 Thermodynamics & Kinetics, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Nelson, Keith — 2009-02-05T05:45:16-05:00

This subject deals primarily with equilibrium properties of macroscopic systems, basic thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium of reactions in gas and solution phase, and rates of chemical reactions.

18.950 Differential Geometry, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Seidel, Paul — 2009-02-04T01:38:09-05:00

This course is an introduction to differential geometry. The course itself is mathematically rigorous, but still emphasizes concrete aspects of geometry, centered on the notion of curvature.

HST.939 Designing and Sustaining Technology Innovation for Global Health Practice, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Blander, Jeffrey — 2009-01-30T03:24:01-05:00

Innovation in global health practice requires leaders who are trained to think and act like entrepreneurs. Whether at a hospital bedside or in a remote village, global healthcare leaders must understand both the business of running a social venture as well as how to plan for and provide access to life saving medicines and essential health services. Each week, the course features a lecture and skills-based tutorial session led by industry, non-profit foundation, technology, and academic leaders to think outside the box in tackling and solving problems in innovation for global health practice through the rationale design of technology and service solutions. The lectures provide the foundation for faculty-mentored pilot project from MOH, students, or non-profit sponsors that may involve creation of a market or business plan, product development, or a research study design.

STS.011 American Science: Ethical Conflicts and Political Choices, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Foley, Brendan — 2009-01-30T03:23:55-05:00

Explores the changing roles, ethical conflicts, and public perceptions of science and scientists in American society from World War II to the present. Studies specific historical episodes focusing on debates between scientists and the contextual factors influencing their opinions and decisions. Topics include the atomic bomb project, environmental controversies, the Challenger disaster, biomedical research, genetic engineering, (mis)use of human subjects, scientific misconduct and whistleblowing.

21W.777 The Science Essay, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Boiko, Karen — 2009-01-29T02:07:40-05:00

21F.716 Introduction to Contemporary Hispanic Literature, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Garrels, Elizabeth — 2009-01-28T04:26:28-05:00

Studies important twentieth-century texts from Spain and Latin America that represent the principal fictional genres—poetry, theatre, short story, and the novel. Includes works by Bombal, Lorca, Neruda, Vallejo, Machado, and García Márquez. Taught in Spanish. Subject offered Spring 2003 and Fall 2004.

2.830J Control of Manufacturing Processes (SMA 6303), Spring 2008 (MIT)

Hardt, David — 2009-01-27T04:06:59-05:00

The objective of this subject is to understand the nature of manufacturing process variation and the methods for its control. First, a general process model for control is developed to understand the limitations a specific process places on the type of control used. A general model for process variation is presented and three methods are developed to minimize variations: Statistical Process Control, Process Optimization and in-process Feedback Control. These are considered in a hierarchy of cost-performance tradeoffs, where performance is based on changes in process capability.

3.042 Materials Project Laboratory, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Chiang, Yet-Ming — 2009-01-26T03:37:08-05:00

As its name implies, the 3.042 Materials Project Laboratory involves working with such operations as investment casting of metals, injection molding of polymers, and sintering of ceramics. After all the abstraction and theory in the lecture part of the DMSE curriculum, many students have found this hands-on experience with materials to be very fun stuff - several have said that 3.042/3.082 was their favorite DMSE subject. The lab is more than operating processing equipment, however. It is intended also to emulate professional practice in materials engineering project management, with aspects of design, analysis, teamwork, literature and patent searching, web creation and oral presentation, and more.

STS.464 Technology and the Literary Imagination, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Williams, Rosalind — 2009-01-26T03:36:46-05:00

Our linked subjects are (1) the historical process by which the meaning of technology has been constructed, and (2) the concurrent transformation of the environment. To explain the emergence of technology as a pivotal word (and concept) in contemporary public discourse, we will examine responses – chiefly political and literary – to the development of the mechanic arts, and to the linked social, cultural, and ecological transformation of 19th- and 20th-century American society, culture, and landscape.

8.13-14 Experimental Physics I & II "Junior Lab", Fall 2007 - Spring 2008 (MIT)

Becker, Ulrich — 2009-01-21T01:42:26-05:00

Junior Lab consists of two undergraduate courses in experimental physics. The courses are offered by the MIT Physics Department, and are usually taken by Juniors (hence the name). Officially, the courses are called Experimental Physics I and II and are numbered 8.13 for the first half, given in the fall semester, and 8.14 for the second half, given in the spring. The purposes of Junior Lab are to give students hands-on experience with some of the experimental basis of modern physics and, in the process, to deepen their understanding of the relations between experiment and theory, mostly in atomic and nuclear physics. Each term, students choose 5 different experiments from a list of 21 total labs.

6.006 Introduction to Algorithms, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Rivest, Ronald — 2009-01-13T03:21:02-05:00

This course provides an introduction to mathematical modeling of computational problems. It covers the common algorithms, algorithmic paradigms, and data structures used to solve these problems. The course emphasizes the relationship between algorithms and programming, and introduces basic performance measures and analysis techniques for these problems.

21L.017 The Art of the Probable: Literature and Probability, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Jackson, Noel — 2009-01-12T02:08:06-05:00

"The Art of the Probable" addresses the history of scientific ideas, in particular the emergence and development of mathematical probability. But it is neither meant to be a history of the exact sciences per se nor an annex to, say, the Course 6 curriculum in probability and statistics. Rather, our objective is to focus on the formal, thematic, and rhetorical features that imaginative literature shares with texts in the history of probability. These shared issues include (but are not limited to): the attempt to quantify or otherwise explain the presence of chance, risk, and contingency in everyday life; the deduction of causes for phenomena that are knowable only in their effects; and, above all, the question of what it means to think and act rationally in an uncertain world. Our course therefore aims to broaden students’ appreciation for and understanding of how literature interacts with – both reflecting upon and contributing to – the scientific understanding of the world. We are just as centrally committed to encouraging students to regard imaginative literature as a unique contribution to knowledge in its own right, and to see literary works of art as objects that demand and richly repay close critical analysis. It is our hope that the course will serve students well if they elect to pursue further work in Literature or other discipline in SHASS, and also enrich or complement their understanding of probability and statistics in other scientific and engineering subjects they elect to take.

21L.421 Comedy, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Kelley, Wyn — 2009-01-12T09:37:34-05:00

This course looks at comedy in drama, novels, and films from Classical Greece to the twentieth century. Focusing on examples from Aristophanes, Shakespeare, Cervantes, Molière, Wilde, Chaplin, and Billy Wilder, along with theoretical contexts, the class examines comedy as a transgressive mode with revolutionary social and political implications. This is a Communications Intensive (CI) class with emphasis on discussion, and frequent, short essays.

15.992 S-Lab: Laboratory for Sustainable Business, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Slaughter, Sarah — 2009-01-08T09:19:51-05:00

How can we translate real-world challenges into future business opportunities? How can individuals, organizations, and society learn and undergo change at the pace needed to stave off worsening problems? Today, organizations of all kinds—traditional manufacturing firms, those that extract resources, a huge variety of new start-ups, services, non-profits, and governmental organizations of all types, among many others—are tackling these very questions. For some, the massive challenges of moving towards sustainability offer real opportunities for new products and services, for reinventing old ones, or for solving problems in new ways. The course aims to provide participants with access and in-depth exposure to firms that are actively grappling with the sustainability-related issues through cases, readings and guest speakers.

16.323 Principles of Optimal Control, Spring 2008 (MIT)

How, Jonathan — 2009-01-08T09:19:25-05:00

Studies the principles of deterministic optimal control. Variational calculus and Pontryagin's maximum principle. Applications of the theory, including optimal feedback control, time-optimal control, and others. Dynamic programming and numerical search algorithms introduced briefly.

6.050J Information and Entropy, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Lloyd, Seth — 2009-01-07T11:01:22-05:00

Unified theory of information with applications to computing, communications, thermodynamics, and other sciences. Digital signals and streams, codes, compression, noise, and probability. Reversible and irreversible operations. Information in biological systems. Channel capacity. Maximum-entropy formalism. Thermodynamic equilibrium, temperature. The Second Law of Thermodynamics. Quantum computation.

11.337J Urban Design Policy and Action, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Schuster, J. Mark — 2009-01-07T11:01:06-05:00

Governments at every level assume a measure of responsibility for seeking good design. Some of that responsibility is exercised directly—through the design and construction of government buildings, for example. But most changes to our environments are neither designed nor built by governments. Rather, they are the result of the actions and investments of private individuals, institutions, corporations, joint ventures, or private/public collaborations. Yet, the actions of all of these actors are affected by the design policies of government and the interventions that are undertaken to implement those policies. In this advanced graduate-level seminar we will explore new ways of thinking about urban design policy in an attempt to better understand just what government does—and what it can do effectively—in the realm of design policy.

7.342 Developmental and Molecular Biology of Regeneration, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Petersen, Christian — 2009-01-07T11:01:01-05:00

How does a regenerating animal "know" what's missing? How are stem cells or differentiated cells used to create new tissues during regeneration? In this class we will take a comparative approach to explore this fascinating problem by critically examining classic and modern scientific literature about the developmental and molecular biology of regeneration. We will learn about conserved developmental pathways that are necessary for regeneration, and we will discuss the relevance of these findings for regenerative medicine. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

15.023J Global Climate Change: Economics, Science, and Policy, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Jacoby, Henry — 2009-01-07T11:00:24-05:00

Introduces scientific, economic, and ecological issues underlying the threat of global climate change, and the institutions engaged in negotiating an international response. Develops an integrated approach to analysis of climate change processes, and assessment of proposed policy measures, drawing on research and model development within the MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change.

1.020 Ecology II: Engineering for Sustainability, Spring 2008 (MIT)

McLaughlin, Dennis — 2008-12-23T05:13:08-05:00

This course provides a review of physical, chemical, ecological, and economic principles used to examine interactions between humans and the natural environment. Mass balance concepts are applied to ecology, chemical kinetics, hydrology, and transportation; energy balance concepts are applied to building design, ecology, and climate change; and economic and life cycle concepts are applied to resource evaluation and engineering design. Numerical models are used to integrate concepts and to assess environmental impacts of human activities. Problem sets involve development of MATLAB® models for particular engineering applications. Some experience with computer programming is helpful but not essential.

21A.360J The Anthropology of Sound, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Helmreich, Stefan — 2008-12-23T03:42:04-05:00

This class examines the ways humans experience the realm of sound and how perceptions and technologies of sound emerge from cultural, economic, and historical worlds. In addition to learning about how environmental, linguistic, and musical sounds are construed cross-culturally, students learn about the rise of telephony, architectural acoustics, and sound recording, as well as about the globalized travel of these technologies. Questions of ownership, property, authorship, and copyright in the age of digital file sharing are also addressed. A major concern will be with how the sound/noise boundary has been imagined, created, and modeled across diverse sociocultural and scientific contexts. Auditory examples — sound art, environmental recordings, music — will be provided and invited throughout the term.

ESD.70J Engineering Economy Module, Fall 2008 (MIT)

de Neufville, Richard — 2008-12-23T03:41:57-05:00

This intensive micro-subject provides the necessary skills in Excel spreadsheet modeling for ESD.71 – Engineering Systems Analysis for Design. Its purpose is to bring entering students up to speed on some of the advanced techniques that we routinely use in analysis. It is motivated by our experience that many students only have an introductory knowledge of Excel, and thus waste a lot of time thrashing about unproductively. Many people think they know Excel, but overlook many efficient tools – such as Data Table and Goal Seek. It is also useful for a variety of other subjects.

ESD.71 Engineering Systems Analysis for Design, Fall 2008 (MIT)

De Neufville, Richard — 2008-12-23T03:41:44-05:00

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Description given at end of this chapter in SWE section.

SP.601J Feminist Theory, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Wood, Elizabeth — 2008-12-22T03:11:15-05:00

This course focuses on a range of theories of gender in modern life. In recent years feminist scholars in a range of disciplines have challenged previously accepted notions of political theory such as the distinctions between public and private, the definitions of politics itself, the nature of citizenship, and the roles of women in civil society. In this course we will examine different aspects of women's lives through the life cycle as seen from the vantage point of feminist theory. In addition we will consider different ways of looking at power and political culture in modern societies, issues of race and class, poverty and welfare, and sexuality and morality.

18.369 Mathematical Methods in Nanophotonics, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Johnson, Steven — 2008-12-22T03:10:33-05:00

Topics vary from year to year. Topic for Fall: Eigenvalues of random matrices. How many are real? Why are the spacings so important? Subject covers the mathematics and applications in physics, engineering, computation, and computer science. Description from course home page: This course covers algebraic approaches to electromagnetism and nano-photonics. Topics include photonic crystals, waveguides, perturbation theory, diffraction, computational methods, applications to integrated optical devices, and fiber-optic systems. Emphasis is placed on abstract algebraic approaches rather than detailed solutions of partial differential equations, the latter being done by computers.

15.369 Corporate Entrepreneurship: Strategies for Technology-Based New Business Development, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Livada, Val — 2008-12-22T03:10:12-05:00

Strategic and organizational issues in the development of new technologies and new business areas for existing firms. Issues examined from the perspectives of both large corporations and emerging technology-based enterprises. Linkages between internal and external sources of technology in major new business development. Examination of internal entrepreneurial ventures, alliances (especially between large and new companies), joint ventures, acquisitions, corporate venture capital investments, and contract product development as alternative approaches. Brief overview of issues faced in developing technology strategies and plans. Outside speakers supplement faculty lectures. Student teams prepare ambitious term reports on an aspect of corporate business development.

1.133 Masters of Engineering Concepts of Engineering Practice, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Adams, Eric — 2008-12-17T04:50:49-05:00

This course is a core requirement for the Masters in Engineering program designed to teach students about the roles of today's professional engineer and expose them to team-building skills through lectures, team workshops, and seminars. Topics include: written and oral communication, job placement skills, trends in the engineering and construction industry, risk analysis and risk management, managing public information, proposal preparation, project evaluation, project management, liability, professional ethics, and negotiation. The course draws on relevant large-scale projects to illustrate each component of the subject.

15.225 Economy and Business in Modern China and India, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Huang, Yasheng — 2008-12-17T02:42:36-05:00

As markets or production bases, China and India are becoming important and integral players in the global economy. Foreign direct investment (FDI), portfolio investments and outsourcing businesses have increased dramatically in these two economies. Despite the rising importance of these two economies on the world stage, our knowledge and analysis of these two countries in an integrated manner has remained poor. The two are often lumped together by business analysts as "emerging markets," despite the substantial differences in their political systems, reform policies and business organizations. Academics, in contrast, have tended to treat two countries separately, preferring to specialize in issues and questions specific to one or the other country. The purpose of this course is to analyze these two countries within a coherent analytical framework. Our learning model is inductive, and heavily based on class discussions and participation. The group projects should aim at integrating analysis, knowledge and understanding of these two countries. We will also experiment with other forms of group projects, such as creating and working on business plans and those projects that integrate research from field trips with more traditional research, such as library research. There is no prerequisite but 15.012 and 15.223 are highly recommended.

14.471 Public Economics I, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Poterba, James — 2008-12-17T02:42:30-05:00

Theory and evidence on government taxation policy. Topics include tax incidence, optimal tax theory, the effect of taxation on labor supply and savings, taxation and corporate behavior, and tax expenditure policy.

11.307 Beijing Urban Design Studio, Summer 2008 (MIT)

Frenchman, Dennis — 2008-12-17T02:42:11-05:00

In 2008, the Beijing Urban Design Studio will focus on the issue of Beijing's urban transformation under the theme of de-industrialization, by preparing an urban design and development plan for the Shougang (Capital Steel Factory) site. This studio will address whether portions of the old massive factory infrastructure can be preserved as a national industrial heritage site embedded into future new development; how to balance the cultural and recreational value of the site with environmental challenges; as well as how to use the site for urban development. A special focus of the studio will be to consider development approaches that minimize energy utilization. To research these questions, students will be asked to interact with clients from the factory, local residents, city officials and experts on transportation, environment, energy and real estate. They will assess strategic options for the steel factory and propose comprehensive plans for the design and development of the brownfield site.

7.344 Directed Evolution: Engineering Biocatalysts, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Love, Kerry — 2008-12-17T02:41:10-05:00

Enzymes, nature's catalysts, are remarkable biomolecules capable of extraordinary specificity and selectivity. Directed evolution has been used to produce enzymes with many unique properties, including altered substrate specificity, thermal stability, organic solvent resistance, and enantioselectivity — selectivity of one stereoisomer over another. The technique of directed evolution comprises two essential steps: mutagenesis of the gene encoding the enzyme to produce a library of variants, and selection of a particular variant based on its desirable catalytic properties. In this course we will examine what kinds of enzymes are worth evolving and the strategies used for library generation and enzyme selection. We will focus on those enzymes that are used in the synthesis of drugs and in biotechnological applications. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

21L.702 Studies in Fiction: Rethinking the American Masterpiece, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Kelley, Wyn — 2008-12-17T02:41:04-05:00

Intensive study of a range of texts by a single author or by a limited group of authors whose achievements are mutually illuminating. Some attention to narrative theory, and biographical and cultural backgrounds. Instruction and practice in oral and written communication. Topic: Joyce's Ulysses and Its Legacy.

STS.036 Technology and Nature in American History, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Pietruska, Jamie — 2008-12-17T02:40:51-05:00

Subject considers how the visual and material world of "nature" has been reshaped by industrial practices, beliefs, structures, and activities. Readings in historical geography, aesthetics, American history, environmental and ecological history, architecture, city planning, and landscape studies. Several field trips planned to visit local industrial landscapes. Assignments involve weekly short, written responses to the readings, and discussion-leading. Final project is a photo-essay on the student's choice of industrial site (photographic experience not necessary).

2.51 Intermediate Heat and Mass Transfer, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Mikic, Borivoje — 2008-12-15T03:34:45-05:00

Analysis, modeling, and design of heat and mass transfer processes with application to common technologies. Unsteady heat conduction in one or more dimensions, steady conduction in multidimensional configurations, numerical simulation; forced convection in laminar and turbulent flows; natural convection in internal and external configurations; phase change heat transfer; thermal radiation, black bodies, grey radiation networks, spectral and solar radiation; mass transfer at low rates, evaporation.

MAS.630 Affective Computing, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Picard, Rosalind — 2008-12-15T03:34:39-05:00

This class explores computing that relates to, arises from, or deliberately influences emotion. Topics include the interaction of emotion with cognition and perception, the role of emotion in human-computer interaction, the communication of human emotion via face, voice, physiology, and behavior, construction of computers that can recognize and respond appropriately to human emotional expressions, the development of computers that "have" emotion, and other areas of current research interest. Weekly reading, discussion, and a term project required.

6.080 Great Ideas in Theoretical Computer Science, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Aaronson, Scott — 2008-12-15T03:34:32-05:00

This course provides a challenging introduction to some of the central ideas of theoretical computer science. It attempts to present a vision of "computer science beyond computers": that is, CS as a set of mathematical tools for understanding complex systems such as universes and minds. Beginning in antiquity—with Euclid's algorithm and other ancient examples of computational thinking—the course will progress rapidly through propositional logic, Turing machines and computability, finite automata, Gödel's theorems, efficient algorithms and reducibility, NP-completeness, the P versus NP problem, decision trees and other concrete computational models, the power of randomness, cryptography and one-way functions, computational theories of learning, interactive proofs, and quantum computing and the physical limits of computation. Class participation is essential, as the class will include discussion and debate about the implications of many of these ideas.

15.351 Managing Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Murray, Fiona — 2008-12-10T11:08:36-05:00

This course discusses the basics every manager needs to organize successful technology-driven innovation in both entrepreneurial and established firms. We start by examining innovation-based strategies as a source of competitive advantage and then examine how to build organizations that excel at identifying, building and commercializing technological innovations. Major topics include how the innovation process works; creating an organizational environment that rewards innovation and entrepreneurship; designing appropriate innovation processes (e.g. stage-gate, portfolio management); organizing to take advantage of internal and external sources of innovation; and structuring entrepreneurial and established organizations for effective innovation. The course examines how entrepreneurs can shape their firms so that they continuously build and commercialize valuable innovations. Many of the examples also focus on how established firms can become more entrepreneurial in their approach to innovation.

12.802 Wave Motion in the Ocean and the Atmosphere, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Rizzoli, Paola — 2008-12-10T11:08:29-05:00

This course is an introduction to basic ideas of geophysical wave motion in rotating, stratified, and rotating-stratified fluids.

CMS.603 American Soap Operas, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Ford, Samuel — 2008-12-10T11:08:25-05:00

The television landscape has changed drastically in the past few years; nowhere is this more prevalent than in the American daytime serial drama, one of the oldest forms of television content. This class examines the history of these "soap operas" and their audiences by focusing on the production, consumption, and media texts of soaps. The class will include discussions of what makes soap operas a unique form, the history of the genre, current experimentation with transmedia storytelling, the online fan community, and comparisons between daytime dramas and primetime serials from 24 to Friday Night Lights, through a study of Procter & Gamble's As the World Turns.

21F.059 European Thought and Culture, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Nolden, Tom — 2008-12-10T11:08:22-05:00

This subject surveys main currents of European cultural and intellectual history in the modern period. Such a foundation course is central to the humanities in Europe. The curriculum introduces a set of ideas and arguments that have played a formative role in European cultural history, and acquaints them with some exemplars of critical thought. Among the topics to be considered: the critique of religion, the promise of independence, the advance of capitalism, the temptations of Marxism, the origins of totalitarianism, and the dialects of enlightenment. In addition to texts, we will also discuss pieces of art, incl. paintings and film.

7.343 A Love-Hate Relationship: Cholesterol in Health and Disease, Fall 2005 (MIT)

Yesilaltay, Ayce — 2008-12-10T11:08:18-05:00

Seminar covering topics of current interest in biology. Includes reading and analysis of research papers and student presentations. Contact Biology Education Office for topics.

21M.670 Traditions in American Concert Dance: Gender and Autobiography, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Blanco, Melissa — 2008-12-10T12:12:52-05:00

This course explores the forms, contents, and context of world traditions in dance that played a crucial role in shaping American concert dance. For example, we will identify dances from an African American vernacular tradition that were transferred from the social space to the concert stage we will explore the artistic lives of such American dance artists as Katherine Dunham, Pearl Primus and Alvin Ailey along with Isadora Duncan, Martha Graham, George Balanchine, and Merce Cunningham as American dance innovators. Of particular importance to our investigation will be the construction of gender and autobiography that lie at the heart of concert dance practice, and the ways in which these qualities have been choreographed by American artists.

21A.112 Seminar in Ethnography and Fieldwork, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Helmreich, Stefan — 2008-12-10T12:12:50-05:00

This advanced course in anthropology engages closely with discussions and debates about ethnographic research, ethics, and representation.

STS.003 The Rise of Modern Science, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Slava Gerovitch — 2008-12-08T02:30:27-05:00

The development of major fields in the physical and life sciences, beginning with eighteenth-century Europe and ending with twentieth-century America. Examines ideas, institutions, and the social settings of the sciences, with emphasis on how cultural contexts influence scientific concepts and practices.

12.001 Introduction to Geology, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Elkins-Tanton, Lindy — 2008-12-05T10:11:47-05:00

This undergraduate level course presents a basic study in geology. It introduces major minerals and rock types, rock-forming processes, and time scales; temperatures, pressures, compositions, structure of the Earth, and measurement techniques; geologic structures and relationships observable in the field; sediment movement and landform development by moving water, wind, and ice; crustal processes and planetary evolution in terms of global plate tectonics with an emphasis on ductile and brittle processes.

18.175 Theory of Probability, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Panchenko, Dmitry — 2008-12-04T04:14:23-05:00

Laws of large numbers and central limit theorems for sums of independent random variables, conditioning and martingales, Brownian motion and elements of diffusion theory.

17.441 International Politics and Climate Change, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Choucri, Nazli — 2008-12-03T11:26:53-05:00

This course examines the interconnections of international politics and climate change. Beginning with an analysis of the strategic and environmental legacies of the 20th Century, it explores the politicization of the natural environment, the role of science in this process, and the gradual shifts in political concerns to incorporate "nature". Two general thrusts of climate-politics connections are pursued, namely those related to (a) conflict - focusing on threats to security due to environmental dislocations and (b) cooperation - focusing on the politics of international treaties that have contributed to emergent processes for global accord in response to evidence of climate change. The course concludes by addressing the question of: "What Next?"

21L.472 Major European Novels, Fall 2008 (MIT)

Kibel, Alvin — 2008-12-02T12:13:27-05:00

This subject traces the history of the European novel by studying texts that have been influential in connection with two interrelated ideas. 1) When serious fiction deals with matters of great consequence, it should not deal with the actions of persons of consequence–kings, princes, high elected officials and the like–but rather with the lives of apparently ordinary people and the everyday details of their social ambitions and desires. To use a phrase of Balzac's, serious fiction deals with "what happens everywhere". 2) This idea sometimes goes with another: that the most significant representations of the human condition are those dealing with persons who try to compel society to accept them as its destined agent, despite their absence of high birth or inheritance.

5.62 Physical Chemistry II, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Field, Robert — 2008-12-01T02:44:15-05:00

Elementary statistical mechanics; transport properties; kinetic theory; solid state; reaction rate theory; and chemical reaction dynamics.

21M.361 Composing with Computers I (Electronic Music Composition), Spring 2008 (MIT)

Whincop, Peter — 2008-12-01T02:44:07-05:00

A series of progressive composition projects, culminating in a large final projecting, using various types of music hardware and software. Instruction in recording, editing, synthesis, sampling, digital sound processing, sequencing, and interactive systems. Close listening to computer and electronic music from various genres including Varese, Cage, Schaeffer, Xenakis, Lansky, Stockhausen, Tcherepnin, Barlow, Gunter, and Eno. Subject focuses on using the computer as a means of musical creativity and intuition. From the course home page: Course Description This class explores sound and what can be done with it. Sources are recorded from students' surroundings - sampled and electronically generated (both analog and digital). Assignments include composing with the sampled sounds, feedback, and noise, using digital signal processing (DSP), convolution, algorithms, and simple mixing. The class focuses on sonic and compositional aspects rather than technology, math, or acoustics, though these are examined in varying detail. Students complete weekly composition and listening assignments; material for the latter is drawn from sound art, experimental electronica, conventional and non-conventional classical electronic works, popular music, and previous students' compositions.

21M.621 Theater and Cultural Diversity in the U.S., Spring 2008 (MIT)

DeFrantz, Thomas — 2008-12-01T11:46:11-05:00

A study of contemporary North American theater movements and selected individual works that are organized around issues of ethnic and socio-cultural identity. Class lectures and discussions analyze samples of African-American, Chicano, Asian-American, Puerto Rican and Native American theater taking into consideration their historical and political context. Performance exercises help students identify the theatrical context and theatrical forms and techniques used by these theaters.

5.067 Crystal Structure Refinement, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Mueller, Peter — 2008-12-01T11:46:08-05:00

This course in crystal structure refinement examines the practical aspects of crystal structure determination from data collection strategies to data reduction and basic and advanced refinement problems of organic and inorganic molecules.

5.069 Crystal Structure Analysis, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Mueller, Peter — 2008-12-01T11:46:04-05:00

This course covers the following topics: X-ray diffraction: symmetry, space groups, geometry of diffraction, structure factors, phase problem, direct methods, Patterson methods, electron density maps, structure refinement, how to grow good crystals, powder methods, limits of X-ray diffraction methods, and structure data bases.

6.061 Introduction to Electric Power Systems, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Kirtley, James — 2008-11-25T01:25:28-05:00

This course is an introductory subject in the field of electric power systems and electrical to mechanical energy conversion. Electric power has become increasingly important as a way of transmitting and transforming energy in industrial, military and transportation uses. Examples of new uses for electric power include all manners of electric transportation systems (electric trains that run under catenary, diesel-electric railroad locomotion, 'maglev' medium and high speed tracked vehicles, electric transmission systems for ships, replacement of hydraulics in high performance actuators, aircraft launch and recovery systems, battery powered factory material transport systems, electric and hybrid electric cars and buses, even the 'more electric' airplane). The course material includes fundamentals of energy-handling electric circuits and electromechanical apparatus, modeling of magnetic field devices and description of their behavior using appropriate models, and simplification of problems using transformation techniques. The course analyzes power electric circuits, magnetic circuits, and elements of linear and rotating electric machinery. The course uses lumped parameter electromechanics to understand power systems. The course presents models of synchronous, induction, and DC machinery. The course shows the interconnection of electric power apparatus and operation of power systems.

12.510 Introduction to Seismology, Spring 2008 (MIT)

van der Hilst, Robert — 2008-11-25T10:40:53-05:00

This graduate level course presents a basic study in seismology and the utilization of seismic waves for the study of Earth's interior. It introduces techniques necessary for understanding of elastic wave propagation in layered media.

24.941J The Lexicon and Its Features, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Stevens, Kenneth — 2008-11-25T10:40:30-05:00

This course provides an overview of the distinctive features which distinguish sound categories of languages of the world. Theories which relate these categories to their acoustic and articulatory correlates, both universally and in particular languages are covered. Models of word recognition by listeners, features, and phonological structure are also discussed. In addition, the course offers a variety of perspectives on these issues, drawn from Electrical Engineering, Linguistics and Cognitive Science.

15.963 Advanced Strategy, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Henderson, Rebecca — 2008-11-24T12:42:28-05:00

This course draws on a wide range of perspectives to explore the roots of long term competitive advantage in unusually successful firms. Using a combination of cases, simulations, readings and, most importantly, lively discussion, the course will explore the ways in which long term advantage is built from first mover advantage, increasing returns, and unique organizational competencies. We will focus particularly on the ways in which the actions of senior management build competitive advantage over time, and on the strategic implications of understanding the roots of a firm's success.

2.004 Dynamics and Control II, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Rowell, Derek — 2008-11-24T12:42:05-05:00

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Create lumped parameter models (expressed as ODEs) of simple dynamic systems in the electrical and mechanical energy domains Make quantitative estimates of model parameters from experimental measurements Obtain the time-domain response of linear systems to initial conditions and/or common forcing functions (specifically; impulse, step and ramp input) by both analytical and computational methods Obtain the frequency-domain response of linear systems to sinusoidal inputs Compensate the transient response of dynamic systems using feedback techniques Design, implement and test an active control system to achieve a desired performance measure Mastery of these topics will be assessed via homework, quizzes/exams, and lab assignments.

6.055J The Art of Approximation in Science and Engineering, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Sanjoy Mahajan — 2008-11-12T03:30:08-05:00

This course teaches simple reasoning techniques for complex phenomena: divide and conquer, dimensional analysis, extreme cases, continuity, scaling, successive approximation, balancing, cheap calculus, and symmetry. Applications are drawn from the physical and biological sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Examples include bird and machine flight, neuron biophysics, weather, prime numbers, and animal locomotion. Emphasis is on low-cost experiments to test ideas and on fostering curiosity about phenomena in the world.

21M.350 Musical Analysis, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Child, Peter — 2008-11-05T10:44:54-05:00

An introduction to the analysis of tonal music. Students develop analytical techniques based upon concepts learned in Harmony and Counterpoint I and II. Students study harmony, counterpoint, melodic line and motivic relationships at local and large scale levels of musical structure. Three 7-page papers, one revised paper, and one oral presentation required.

21M.873 Theater Arts Topics - Suburbia, January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Gammons, David R. — 2008-11-05T10:44:49-05:00

Opportunity for the study of theater arts topics not covered by regular subject listings, including experimental subjects offered by permanent and visiting faculty. Students seeking an individual program of study with a faculty member must also obtain the approval of the Director of Theater Arts. Consult Theater Arts Office for departmental form. From the course home page: Course Description Directed practice in acting, production, or design on a sustained theater piece, either one-act or full length, from pre-rehearsal preparation to workshop production. Consult Theater Arts Office. Includes directed practice in stagecraft. Dramashop rehearses a production of Eric Bogosian's play "subUrbia" for presentation the first two weekends in February. Visiting artist, David R. Gammons, directs. Approximately 10 roles filled by auditions. Students can receive up to six credits for acting or technical positions. Schedule of rehearsals to be arranged, but actors should be available during the afternoon. Students must be available for performances in early February. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

15.676 Work, Employment, and Industrial Relations Theory, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Kochan, Thomas — 2008-11-03T10:33:37-05:00

Historical evolution and assessment of different theories and disciplinary perspectives used in research on work, employment, and industrial relations. Introduces doctoral students to the field and explores where their research interests fit within the broader field. First part compares the normative assumptions, theories, and methodologies used by economists, historians, sociologists, psychologists, political scientists, and legal scholars from the latter nineteenth century to the present. Final portion explores strategies for advancing research on topics of current interest to participants.

12.085 Seminar in Environmental Science, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Rothman, Daniel — 2008-10-30T12:22:43-04:00

Required for all Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences majors in the Environmental Science track, this course is an introduction to current research in the field. Stresses integration of central scientific concepts in environmental policy making and the chemistry, biology, and geology environmental science tracks. Revisits selected core themes for students who have already acquired a basic understanding of environmental science concepts. The topic for this term is geoengineering.

12.540 Principles of Global Positioning Systems, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Herring, Thomas — 2008-10-30T10:18:44-04:00

The aim of this course is to introduce the principles of the Global Positioning System and to demonstrate its application to various aspects of Earth Sciences. The specific content of the course depends each year on the interests of the students in the class. In some cases, the class interests are towards the geophysical applications of GPS and we concentrate on high precision (millimeter level) positioning on regional and global scales. In other cases, the interests have been more toward engineering applications of kinematic positioning with GPS in which case the concentration is on positioning with slightly less accuracy but being able to do so for a moving object. In all cases, we concentrate on the fundamental issues so that students should gain an understanding of the basic limitations of the system and how to extend its application to areas not yet fully explored.

HST.582J Biomedical Signal and Image Processing, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Greenberg, Julie — 2008-10-30T10:18:22-04:00

This course presents the fundamentals of digital signal processing with particular emphasis on problems in biomedical research and clinical medicine. It covers principles and algorithms for processing both deterministic and random signals. Topics include data acquisition, imaging, filtering, coding, feature extraction, and modeling. The focus of the course is a series of labs that provide practical experience in processing physiological data, with examples from cardiology, speech processing, and medical imaging. The labs are done on the MIT Server in MATLAB® during weekly lab sessions that take place in an electronic classroom. Lectures cover signal processing topics relevant to the lab exercises, as well as background on the biological signals processed in the labs.

11.235 Analyzing Projects and Organizations, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Judith Tendler — 2008-10-27T09:30:41-04:00

Seminar builds analytic skills for evaluating programs and projects, organizations, and environments. Subject covers: using proxy indicators with poor data and limited time; preparing for, conducting, and interpreting interviews; conducting cross-project and cross-organization comparisons; and finding rationality in seemingly chaotic organizational and project environments. Description from course home page: This class analyzes how organizations behave, both government and nongovernment, drawing on the literature of the sociology of organizations, political science, and public administration. The class seeks to demonstrate rationality in otherwise seemingly chaotic organizational environments and implementation experiences. It builds analytical skills for evaluating programs and projects, organizations, and environments, and draws equally on developing-country and developed-country literature.

7.88J Protein Folding Problem, Fall 2007 (MIT)

King, Jonathan — 2008-10-23T11:56:20-04:00

Mechanisms by which the amino acid sequence of polypeptide chains determines their three-dimensional conformation. Topics include: sequence determinants of secondary structure; folding of newly synthesized polypeptide chains within cells; unfolding and refolding of proteins in vitro; folding intermediates aggregation and competing off-pathway reactions; role of chaperonins, isomerases, and other helper proteins; protein recovery problems in the biotechnology industry; diseases associated with protein folding defects.

21L.011 The Film Experience, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Thorburn, David — 2008-10-22T10:56:25-04:00

This course is an introduction to narrative film, emphasizing the unique properties of the movie house and the motion picture camera, the historical evolution of the film medium, and the intrinsic artistic qualities of individual films. The primary focus is on American cinema, but secondary attention is paid to works drawn from other great national traditions, such as France, Italy, and Japan. The syllabus includes such directors as Griffith, Keaton, Chaplin, Renoir, Ford, Hitchcock, Altman, De Sica, and Truffaut.

8.333 Statistical Mechanics I: Statistical Mechanics of Particles, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Mehran Kardar — 2008-10-10T11:13:12-04:00

Statistical Mechanics is a probabilistic approach to equilibrium properties of large numbers of degrees of freedom. In this two-semester course, basic principles are examined. Topics include: thermodynamics, probability theory, kinetic theory, classical statistical mechanics, interacting systems, quantum statistical mechanics, and identical particles.

8.044 Statistical Physics I, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Young Lee — 2008-10-10T11:13:06-04:00

Introduction to probability, statistical mechanics, and thermodynamics. Random variables, joint and conditional probability densities, and functions of a random variable. Concepts of macroscopic variables and thermodynamic equilibrium, fundamental assumption of statistical mechanics, microcanonical and canonical ensembles. First, second, and third laws of thermodynamics. Numerous examples illustrating a wide variety of physical phenomena such as magnetism, polyatomic gases, thermal radiation, electrons in solids, and noise in electronic devices. Concurrent enrollment in 8.04 [Quantum Physics I] is recommended.

8.334 Statistical Mechanics II: Statistical Physics of Fields, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Kardar, Mehran — 2008-10-03T04:54:28-04:00

A two-semester course on statistical mechanics. Basic principles are examined in 8.333: the laws of thermodynamics and the concepts of temperature, work, heat, and entropy. Postulates of classical statistical mechanics, microcanonical, canonical, and grand canonical distributions; applications to lattice vibrations, ideal gas, photon gas. Quantum statistical mechanics; Fermi and Bose systems. Interacting systems: cluster expansions, van der Waal's gas, and mean-field theory. Topics from modern statistical mechanics are explored in 8.334: the hydrodynamic limit and classical field theories. Phase transitions and broken symmetries: universality, correlation functions, and scaling theory. The renormalization approach to collective phenomena. Dynamic critical behavior. Random systems.

18.917 Topics in Algebraic Topology: The Sullivan Conjecture, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Lurie, Jacob — 2008-10-03T04:54:14-04:00

Content varies from year to year. Introduces new and significant developments in algebraic topology with the focus on homotopy theory and related areas. Spring 2003: An introduction to higher algebraic K-theory.

18.701 Algebra I, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Artin, Michael — 2008-10-03T04:54:07-04:00

The Algebra I class covers subjects such as Group Theory, Linear Algebra, and Geometry. In more detail groups, vector spaces, linear transformations, symmetry groups, bilinear forms, and linear groups are discussed.

18.702 Algebra II, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Artin, Michael — 2008-10-03T04:54:01-04:00

More extensive and theoretical than the 18.700-18.703 sequence. Experience with proofs helpful. First term: group theory, geometry, and linear algebra. Second term: group representations, rings, ideals, fields, polynomial rings, modules, factorization, integers in quadratic number fields, field extensions, Galois theory. From the course home page: Course Description The course covers group theory and its representations, and focuses on the Sylow theorem, Schur's lemma, and proof of the orthogonality relations. It also analyzes the rings, the factorization processes, and the fields. Topics such as the formal construction of integers and polynomials, homomorphisms and ideals, the Gauss' lemma, quadratic imaginary integers, Gauss primes, and finite and function fields are discussed in detail.

21L.704 Studies in Poetry: 20th Century Irish Poetry: The Shadow of W. B. Yeats, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Hildebidle, John — 2008-09-23T02:47:29-04:00

William Butler Yeats occupies a dominant position in the lives and work of the Irish poets who followed him. We will explore some of that poetry, and consider how later poets, especially female poets, tried to come to grips with, or escape from, that dominance. As a seminar, the subject will place special emphasis on student involvement and control. I will ask you to submit one ten-twelve page essay, two shorter (five page) essays, and to accept the role of "leadoff person," perhaps more than once, That role will demand that you choose from among the assigned readings for that session the poem we should focus upon, and to offer either a provocative articulation of what the poem is about, or a provocative question which the poem confronts, and which we should grapple with, as well.

7.343 Sophisticated Survival Skills of Simple Microorganisms, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Dolberry, Adrienne — 2008-09-15T04:11:34-04:00

In this course, we will discuss the microbial physiology and genetics of stress responses in aquatic ecosystems, astrobiology, bacterial pathogenesis and other environments. We will learn about classical and novel methods utilized by researchers to uncover bacterial mechanisms induced under both general and environment-specific stresses. Finally, we will compare and contrast models for bacterial stress responses to gain an understanding of distinct mechanisms of survival and of why there are differences among bacterial genera.

12.815 Atmospheric Radiation, Fall 2008 (MIT)

McClatchey, Robert — 2008-09-11T12:42:54-04:00

Introduction to the physics of atmospheric radiation and remote sensing including use of computer codes. Radiative transfer equation including emission and scattering, spectroscopy, Mie theory, and numerical solutions. Solution of inverse problems in remote sensing of atmospheric temperature and composition.

24.222 Decisions, Games, and Rational Choice, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Stalnaker, Robert — 2008-09-09T04:39:49-04:00

Foundations and philosophical applications of Bayesian decision theory, game theory and theory of collective choice. Why should degrees of belief be probabilities? Is it always rational to maximize expected utility? If so, why and what is its utility? What is a solution to a game? What does a game-theoretic solution concept such as Nash equilibrium say about how rational players will, or should, act in a game? How are the values and the actions of groups, institutions and societies related to the values and actions of the individuals that constitute them?

2.081J Plates and Shells, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Wierzbicki, Tomasz — 2008-09-04T12:27:00-04:00

This course explores the following topics: derivation of elastic and plastic stress-strain relations for plate and shell elements; the bending and buckling of rectangular plates; nonlinear geometric effects; post-buckling and ultimate strength of cold formed sections and typical stiffened panels used in naval architecture; the general theory of elastic shells and axisymmetric shells; buckling, crushing and bending strength of cylindrical shells with application to offshore structures; and the application to crashworthiness of vehicles and explosive and impact loading of structures. The class is taught during first half of term.

18.100A Analysis I, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Mattuck, Arthur — 2008-08-28T10:12:43-04:00

Two options offered, both covering fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral, sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit operations. Both options show the utility of abstract concepts and teach understanding and construction of proofs. Option A chooses less abstract definitions and proofs, and gives applications where possible. Option B is more demanding and for students with more mathematical maturity. Places greater emphasis on point-set topology. From the course home page: Course Description Analysis I (18.100) in its various versions covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: continuity, differentiability, some form of the Riemann integral, sequences and series of numbers and functions, uniform convergence with applications to interchange of limit operations, some point-set topology, including some work in Euclidean n-space. MIT students may choose to take one of three versions of 18.100: Option A (18.100A) chooses less abstract definitions and proofs, and gives applications where possible. Option B (18.100B) is more demanding and for students with more mathematical maturity; it places more emphasis from the beginning on point-set topology and n-space, whereas Option A is concerned primarily with analysis on the real line, saving for the last weeks work in 2-space (the plane) and its point-set topology. Option C (18.100C) is a 15-unit variant of Option B, with further instruction and practice in written and oral communication.

21L.995 Special Topics in Literature: Milton's "Paradise Lost", January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Fuller, Mary — 2008-08-22T04:50:21-04:00

In this 3-unit class, we will read Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost. The goal of the class is for students to come away feeling comfortable with its language and argument; meeting in a small group will also allow us to talk about the key questions and issues raised by the poem. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

21L.705 Major Authors: John Milton, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Fuller, Mary — 2008-08-22T04:50:14-04:00

In 1667, John Milton published what he intended both as the crowning achievement of a poetic career and a justification of God's ways to man: an epic poem which retold and reimagined the Biblical story of creation, temptation, and original sin. Even in a hostile political climate, Paradise Lost was almost immediately recognized as a classic, and one fate of a classic is to be rewritten, both by admirers and by antagonists. In this seminar, we will read Paradise Lost alongside works of 20th century fantasy and science fiction which rethink both Milton's text and its source. From the course home page: Course Description In 1667, John Milton published what he intended both as the crowning achievement of a poetic career and a justification of God's ways to man: an epic poem which retold and reimagined the Biblical story of creation, temptation, and original sin. Even in a hostile political climate, Paradise Lost was almost immediately recognized as a classic, and one fate of a classic is to be rewritten, both by admirers and by antagonists. In this seminar, we will read Paradise Lost alongside works of 20th century fantasy and science fiction which rethink both Milton's text and its source. Students should come to the seminar having read Paradise Lost straight through at least once; this can be accomplished by taking the IAP subject, Reading Paradise Lost (21L.995), or independently. Twentieth century authors will include C. S. Lewis (Perelandra, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) and Philip Pullman (His Dark Materials), as well as assorted criticism. Each week, one class meeting will focus on Milton, and the other on one of the modern novels.

7.346 Synaptic Plasticity and Memory, from Molecules to Behavior, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Kamsler, Ariel — 2008-08-21T03:31:13-04:00

In this course we will discover how innovative technologies combined with profound hypotheses have given rise to our current understanding of neuroscience. We will study both new and classical primary research papers with a focus on the plasticity between synapses in a brain structure called the hippocampus, which is believed to underlie the ability to create and retrieve certain classes of memories. We will discuss the basic electrical properties of neurons and how they fire. We will see how firing properties can change with experience, and we will study the biochemical basis of these changes. We will learn how molecular biology can be used to specifically change the biochemical properties of brain circuits, and we will see how these circuits form a representation of space giving rise to complex behaviors in living animals. A special emphasis will be given to understanding why specific experiments were done and how to design experiments that will answer the questions you have about the brain. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

11.471 Political Economy of Development Projects: Targeting the Poor, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Tendler, Judith — 2008-08-08T03:42:56-04:00

Covers conditions under which public-sector policies, programs, and projects succeed in enhancing the economic activities of poorer groups and micro-regions in developing countries. Topics include local economic development; small enterprises; various forms of collective action; labor and worker associations; nongovernment organizations. Links these to literature on poverty, economic development, and reform of government, and to types of projects, tasks, and environments that are conducive to equitable outcomes. From the course home page: Course Description This course treats public-sector policies, programs, and projects that attempt to reduce poverty and unemployment in developing countries through directly income-generating activities and employment. Topics covered are (1) employment and local economic development, particularly as related to the informal sector, small and medium enterprises, and workers; (2) the political economy of local economic-development initiatives; (3) lessons from policy and implementation experiences; (4) worker conditions, standards, and rights; and (5) associations among small (and often medium) firms, and among workers. The course links these approaches to the broader literature on poverty reduction, economic development, politics, and the reform of government. It discusses the types of initiatives, tasks, and environments that are most conducive to equitable outcomes, and emphasizes throughout the understandings gained about why certain initiatives work and others do not.

CMS.600 Videogame Theory and Analysis, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Robison, Alice — 2008-08-08T03:42:51-04:00

This course will serve as an introduction to the interdisciplinary academic study of videogames, examining their cultural, educational, and social functions in contemporary settings. By playing, analyzing, and reading and writing about videogames, we will examine debates surrounding how they function within socially situated contexts in order to better understand games' influence on and reflections of society. Readings will include contemporary videogame theory and the completion of a contemporary commercial videogame chosen in consultation with the instructor.

2.004 Systems, Modeling, and Control II, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Barbastathis, George — 2008-08-08T05:58:24-04:00

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: • Create lumped parameter models (expressed as ODE’s) of simple dynamic systems in the electrical and mechanical energy domains • Make quantitative estimates of model parameters from experimental measurements • Obtain the time-domain response of linear systems to initial conditions and/or common forcing functions (specifically; impulse, step and ramp input) by both analytical and computational methods • Obtain the frequency-domain response of linear systems to sinusoidal inputs • Compensate the transient response of dynamic systems using feedback techniques • Design, implement and test an active control system to achieve a desired performance measure Mastery of these topics will be assessed via homeworks, quizzes/exams, and lab assignments.

ESD.57 Technology-based Business Transformation, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Wladawsky-Berger, Irving — 2008-08-07T01:15:49-04:00

This course covers how to leverage major technology advances to significantly transform a business in the marketplace. There is a focus on major issues a business must deal with to transform its technical and market strategies successfully, including the organizational and cultural aspects that often cause such business transformations to fail. Class material draws from concrete experiences of IBM's major transformation in the late 1990s, when it aggressively embraced the Internet and came up with its e-business strategy.

15.571 Generating Business Value from Information Technology, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Weill, Peter — 2008-08-07T01:15:39-04:00

Changing the basis of competition, e-Business means doing business electronically by bringing together buyers and sellers. The growth of e-business moves businesses from the place to the space. The familiar components of the place: cash, checks, paper reports and documents, store fronts, and face to face meetings remain important, but less so. In addition, growing in importance is the space where information in all its forms becomes digital and the cost of replicating and distributing this information approaches zero. The business models for e-business are emerging, being simultaneously developed and market tested by firms who are doing business electronically. Subject focuses on how to understand the viable e-business models for existing businesses. The challenges facing existing, traditional, and successful firms that must operate in both place and space are addressed in detail. Restricted to graduate students.

SP.293 Lego Robotics, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Rising, James — 2008-08-01T12:40:36-04:00

Lego Robotics uses Legos as a fun tool to explore robotics, mechanical systems, electronics, and programming. This seminar is primarily a lab experience which provides students with resources to design, build, and program functional robots constructed from Legos and a few other parts such as motors and sensors.

3.225 Electronic and Mechanical Properties of Materials, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Fitzgerald, Eugene — 2008-08-01T12:39:50-04:00

Electrical, optical, magnetic, and mechanical properties of metals, semiconductors, ceramics and polymers. Discussion of roles of bonding, structure (crystalline, defect, energy band and microstructure) and composition in influencing and controlling physical properties. Case studies drawn from a variety of applications including semiconductor diodes, optical detectors, sensors, thin films, biomaterials, composites, and cellular materials.

4.341 Introduction to Photography and Related Media, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Frank, Andrea — 2008-07-31T04:48:02-04:00

Investigates fundamental issues in photography, both analog and digital, and the nature of the photographic image as well as nontraditional ways of exploring the photographic vision. Explores relationship of image to language as well as the issues of meaning, interpretation, and their relationship to culture. Lab fee. Limited enrollment. From the course home page: Course Description This course provides practical instruction in the fundamentals of analog and digital SLR and medium/large format camera operation, film exposure and development, black and white darkroom techniques, digital imaging, and studio lighting. This semester we will explore the MIT Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences for our theme- and site-specific term project, which provides opportunities to develop technical skills and experimental photographic techniques, and for personal artistic exploration. Final projects will be presented on site in exhibition format. Work in progress is continuously presented and discussed in a critical forum. Lectures, readings, visiting professionals, group discussions, and site visits encourage aesthetic appreciation of the medium and a deeper understanding of our semester theme, as well as a critical awareness of how images in our culture are produced and constructed.

15.988 System Dynamics Self Study, Fall 1998 - Spring 1999 (MIT)

Forrester, Jay — 2008-07-30T10:20:31-04:00

Opportunity for group study by students through distance learning on current topics related to management.

2.996 Biomedical Devices Design Laboratory, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Ma, Hongshen — 2008-07-30T10:16:02-04:00

This course provides intensive coverage of the theory and practice of electromechanical instrument design with application to biomedical devices. Students will work with MGH doctors to develop new medical products from concept to prototype development and testing. Lectures will present techniques for designing electronic circuits as part of complete sensor systems. Topics covered include: basic electronics circuits, principles of accuracy, op amp circuits, analog signal conditioning, power supplies, microprocessors, wireless communications, sensors, and sensor interface circuits. Labs will cover practical printed circuit board (PCB) design including component selection, PCB layout, assembly, and planning and budgeting for large projects. Problem sets and labs in the first six weeks are in support of the project. Major team-based design, build, and test project in the last six weeks. Student teams will be composed of both electrical engineering and mechanical engineering students.

6.931 Development of Inventions and Creative Ideas, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Rines, Robert H. — 2008-07-30T10:15:42-04:00

Role of the engineer as patent expert and as technical witness in court and patent interference and related proceedings. Rights and obligations of engineers in connection with educational institutions, government, and large and small businesses. Various manners of transplanting inventions into business operations, including development of New England and other US electronics and biotech industries and their different types of institutions. American systems of incentive to creativity apart from the patent laws in the atomic energy and space fields. For graduate students only; others see 6.901.

15.220 Global Strategy and Organization, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Lessard, Donald — 2008-07-30T10:15:34-04:00

Companies today confront an increasing array of choices regarding markets, locations for key activities, outsourcing and ownership modes, and organization and processes for managing across borders. This course provides students with the conceptual tools necessary to understand and work effectively in today’s interconnected world by developing strategic perspectives that link this changing environment, the state of the global industry, and the capabilities and position of the firm. The goal of this subject is to provide the foundations for taking effective action in the multi-layered world of international business. The first section of the course provides frameworks for identifying and taking advantage of the opportunities presented in a dynamic global environment at the level of the country and industry. The second section of the course focuses on firm-level strategic choices regarding where to engage in which activities. The third section focuses on the challenges of integrating the multiple perspectives, functions, and interests that constitute the multinational firm.

6.777J Design and Fabrication of Microelectromechanical Devices, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Livermore, Carol — 2008-07-28T04:00:26-04:00

Introduction to microelectromechanical devices (MEMS). Material properties, microfabrication technologies, structural behavior, piezoresistive and capacitive sensing, electrostatic actuation, fluid damping, noise, amplifiers, and feedback systems. Student teams design microsystems (sensors, electronics, and feedback) to meet a set of specifications (sensitivity, frequency response, linearity) using a realistic microfabrication process. Emphasis on modeling and simulation in the design process.

MAS.962 Autism Theory and Technology, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Picard, Rosalind W. — 2008-07-28T03:57:44-04:00

This course will lay a foundation in autism theory and autism technology that significantly leverages and expands the Media Lab's ability to pioneer new technology. Students will not only develop new technologies, but also understand, help, and learn from people with autism, a fast-growing group that the CDC identified in the year 2005 as involving an estimated 1 in 150 school age children ages 6-21. Students will gain an understanding of the basic challenges faced by people with autism, together with their families and caregivers, and an understanding of the fundamental theories that inform therapies and technologies for improving the autistic experience. The course will also explore the converging challenges and goals of autism research and the development of technologies with people sense. We will advance ways technology can be used for early detection and intervention in autism. We will enable new technologies for measuring behavior in people with autism, to enable better theory development through more systematic collection of behavior.

7.89 Topics in Computational and Systems Biology, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Burge, Christopher B. — 2008-07-25T03:45:18-04:00

This is a seminar based on research literature. Papers covered are selected to illustrate important problems and approaches in the field of computational and systems biology, and provide students a framework from which to evaluate new developments. The MIT Initiative in Computational and Systems Biology (CSBi) is a campus-wide research and education program that links biology, engineering, and computer science in a multidisciplinary approach to the systematic analysis and modeling of complex biological phenomena. This course is one of a series of core subjects offered through the CSB PhD program, for students with an interest in interdisciplinary training and research in the area of computational and systems biology.

21H.001 How to Stage a Revolution, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Broadhead, William — 2008-07-23T04:30:06-04:00

21H.001, a HASS-D, CI course, explores fundamental questions about the causes and nature of revolutions. How do people overthrow their rulers? How do they establish new governments? Do radical upheavals require bloodshed, violence, or even terror? How have revolutionaries attempted to establish their ideals and realize their goals? We will look at a set of major political transformations throughout the world and across centuries to understand the meaning of revolution and evaluate its impact. By the end of the course, students will be able to offer reasons why some revolutions succeed and others fail. Materials for the course include the writings of revolutionaries, declarations and constitutions, music, films, art, memoirs, and newspapers.

20.109 Laboratory Fundamentals in Biological Engineering, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Belcher, Angela M. — 2008-07-23T04:29:38-04:00

This course introduces experimental biochemical and molecular techniques from a quantitative engineering perspective. Experimental design, rigorous data analysis, and scientific communication form the underpinnings of this subject. Three discovery-based experimental modules focus on genome engineering, expression engineering, and biomaterial engineering. This OCW Web site is based on the source OpenWetWare class Wiki, found at 20.109(F07): Laboratory Fundamentals of Biological Engineering.

21L.488 Contemporary Literature: Literature, Development, and Human Rights, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Brouillette, Sarah — 2008-07-23T04:29:25-04:00

Subject focuses on fiction, drama, and poetry and possibly films inspired by these topics mostly of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. From the course home page: Course Description Central to our era is the gradual movement of all the world's regions toward a uniform standard of economic and political development. In this class we will read a variety of recent narratives that partake of, dissent from, or contribute to this story, ranging from novels and poems to World Bank and IMF statements and National Geographic reports. We will seek to understand the many motives and voices – sometimes congruent, sometimes clashing – that are currently engaged in producing accounts of people in the developing world: their hardships, laughter, and courage, and how they help themselves and are helped by outsiders who may or may not have philanthropic motives. Readings will include literature by J. G. Ballard, Jamaica Kincaid, Rohinton Mistry, and John le Carré, as well as policy documents, newspaper and magazine articles, and the Web sites of a variety of trade and development commissions and organizations.

6.302 Feedback Systems, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Roberge, Jim — 2008-07-23T04:29:19-04:00

Introduction to design of feedback systems. Properties and advantages of feedback systems. Time-domain and frequency-domain performance measures. Stability and degree of stability. Nyquist criterion. Frequency-domain design. Root locus method. Compensation techniques. Application to a wide variety of physical systems. Some previous laboratory experience with electronic systems is assumed (6.002 or 6.071 or 16.040). From the course home page: Course Description This course provides an introduction to the design of feedback systems. Topics covered include: properties and advantages of feedback systems, time-domain and frequency-domain performance measures, stability and degree of stability, root locus method, Nyquist criterion, frequency-domain design, compensation techniques, application to a wide variety of physical systems, internal and external compensation of operational amplifiers, modeling and compensation of power converter systems, and phase lock loops.

21W.730-5 Writing on Contemporary Issues: Imagining the Future, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Faery, Rebecca Blevins — 2008-07-22T03:53:11-04:00

Turn-of-the-century eras have historically been times when people are more than usually inclined to scrutinize the present and speculate about the future. Now, the turn not just of a century but of a millennium having recently passed, such scrutiny and speculations inevitably intensify. What will the future that awaits us in this twenty-first century and beyond be like? And how do visions of that future reflect and respond to the world we live in now? In this course we will read and write about how some writers and filmmakers have responded to the present as a way of imagining—and warning about—possible worlds to come. Guided by our reading and discussion, we will scrutinize our own present and construct our own visions of the future through close readings of the texts as well as of some aspects of contemporary culture—urban and environmental crises, economic imperialism, sexual and reproductive politics, the ethics of biotechnologies, issues of race and gender, the romance of technology, robotics and cyborg cultures, media saturation, language and representation—and the persistent questions they pose about what it means to be human at this start of a new millennium.

6.720J Integrated Microelectronic Devices, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Alamo, Jesus Del — 2008-07-21T11:04:41-04:00

The physics of microelectronic semiconductor devices for silicon integrated circuit applications. Topics: semiconductor fundamentals, p-n junction, metal-oxide semiconductor structure, metal-semiconductor junction, MOS field-effect transistor, and bipolar junction transistor. Emphasis on physical understanding of device operation through energy band diagrams and short-channel MOSFET device design. Issues in modern device scaling outlined. Includes device characterization projects and device design project.

9.10 Cognitive Neuroscience, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Corkin, Suzanne — 2008-07-17T04:06:29-04:00

This course explores the cognitive and neural processes that support attention, vision, language, motor control, navigation, and memory. It introduces basic neuroanatomy, functional imaging techniques, and behavioral measures of cognition, and discusses methods by which inferences about the brain bases of cognition are made. We consider evidence from patients with neurological diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Balint's syndrome, amnesia, and focal lesions from stroke) and from normal human participants.

6.091 Hands-On Introduction to Electrical Engineering Lab Skills, January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Gim Hom — 2008-07-17T04:06:22-04:00

This course introduces students to both passive and active electronic components (op-amps, 555 timers, TTL digital circuits). Basic analog and digital circuits and theory of operation are covered. The labs allow the students to master the use of electronic instruments and construct and/or solder several circuits. The labs also reinforce the concepts discussed in class with a hands-on approach and allow the students to gain significant experience with electrical instruments such as function generators, digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers and power supplies. In the last lab, the students build an electronic circuit that they can keep. The course is geared to freshmen and others who want an introduction to electronics circuits. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

16.89J Space Systems Engineering, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Crawley, Edward — 2008-07-17T04:06:15-04:00

In 16.89/ESD.352 the students will first be asked to understand the key challenges in designing ground and space telescopes, the stakeholder structure and value flows, and the particular pros and cons of the proposed project. The first half of the class will concentrate on performing a thorough architectural analysis of the key astrophysical, engineering, human, budgetary and broader policy issues that are involved in this decision. This will require the students to carry out a qualitative and quantitative conceptual study during the first half of the semester and recommend a small set of promising architectures for further study at the Preliminary Design Review (PDR). Both lunar surface telescopes as well as orbital locations should be considered. The second half of the class will then pick 1-2 of the top-rated architectures for a lunar telescope facility and develop the concept in more detail and present the detailed design at the Critical Design Review (CDR). This should not only sketch out the science program, telescope architecture and design, but also the stakeholder relationships, a rough estimate of budget and timeline, and also clarify the role that human explorers could or should play during both deployment and servicing/operations of such a facility (if any).

9.03 Neural Basis of Learning and Memory, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Corkin, Suzanne — 2008-07-17T12:27:32-04:00

This course highlights the interplay between cellular and molecular storage mechanisms and the cognitive neuroscience of memory, with an emphasis on human and animal models of hippocampal mechanisms and function. Class sessions include lectures and discussion of papers.

15.963 Management Accounting and Control, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Khan, Mozaffar — 2008-07-17T12:27:24-04:00

This course is an introduction to the use of accounting information by managers for decision making, performance evaluation and control. The course should be useful for those who intend to work as management consultants, for LFM (Leaders for Manufacturing) students, and in general, for those who will become senior managers.

15.060 Data, Models, and Decisions, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Freund, Robert — 2008-07-16T01:22:20-04:00

This course is designed to introduce first-year Sloan students to the fundamental techniques of using data to make informed management decisions. In particular, we will focus on various ways of modeling, or thinking structurally about, decision problems in order to enhance decision-making skills. From the course home page: Course Description This course is designed to introduce first-year MBA students to the fundamental quantitative techniques of using data to make informed management decisions. In particular, the course focuses on various ways of modeling, or thinking structurally about, decision problems in order to enhance decision-making skills. Topics include decision analysis, probability, random variables, statistical estimation, regression, simulation, linear optimization, as well as nonlinear and discrete optimization. Management cases are used extensively to illustrate the practical use of modeling tools to improve the management practice.

6.867 Machine Learning, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Jaakkola, Tommi S. (Tommi Sakari) — 2008-07-14T01:09:13-04:00

Principles, techniques, and algorithms in machine learning from the point of view of statistical inference; representation, generalization, and model selection; and methods such as linear/additive models, active learning, boosting, support vector machines, hidden Markov models, and Bayesian networks. From the course home page: Course Description 6.867 is an introductory course on machine learning which gives an overview of many concepts, techniques, and algorithms in machine learning, beginning with topics such as classification and linear regression and ending up with more recent topics such as boosting, support vector machines, hidden Markov models, and Bayesian networks. The course will give the student the basic ideas and intuition behind modern machine learning methods as well as a bit more formal understanding of how, why, and when they work. The underlying theme in the course is statistical inference as it provides the foundation for most of the methods covered.

7.342 Chronic Infection and Inflammation: What are the Consequences on Your Health?, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Frickel, Eva — 2008-07-10T03:27:48-04:00

In this course we will explore the new emerging field of pathogen-induced chronic diseases. Work in this field has redefined the causes of some major disorders, such as ulcers. By reading the primary research literature we will learn about the molecular mechanisms through which pathogens cause disease. The diseases that we cover will be introduced with a short patient case study. We will discuss the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and gastric disease, HPV and cervical cancer, hepatitis C virus and liver disease, Epstein-Barr virus and lymphoma, Cytomegalovirus and atherosclerosis, as well as diabetes and multiple sclerosis. We will study technical advances in the fight against microbes and explore future directions for new treatment strategies of chronic infections and inflammation. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

5.61 Physical Chemistry, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Guy Griffin, Robert — 2008-07-09T01:47:19-04:00

Introductory quantum chemistry; particles and waves; wave mechanics; atomic structure and the Periodic Table; valence and molecular orbital theory; molecular structure; and photochemistry.

11.201 Gateway: Planning Action, Fall 2007 (MIT)

de Souza Briggs, Xavier — 2008-06-30T10:32:35-04:00

This course introduces incoming students in the Master in City Planning (MCP) program to the theory and history of planning in the public interest. It relies primarily on challenging real-world cases to highlight persistent dilemmas, the power and limits of planning, the multiple roles in which planners find themselves in communities around the globe, and the political, ethical, and practical dilemmas that planners face as they try to be effective. As such, the course provides an introduction to the major ideas and debates that define what the field labels “planning theory,” as well as a (necessarily) condensed global history of modern planning. Courses in planning history, politics, and ethics—often several of them—are required in all accredited graduate programs in planning in the U.S. Gateway: Planning Action combines those contents, with a stronger focus on real-world cases than more conventional lecture-based planning theory and history courses at other schools. It also adds several opportunities to strengthen hands-on professional competencies, especially in communication.

6.189 A Gentle Introduction to Programming Using Python, January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Kedia, Mihir — 2008-06-26T10:01:08-04:00

This course will provide a gentle introduction to programming using Python™ for highly motivated students with little or no prior experience in programming computers. The course will focus on planning and organizing programs, as well as the grammar of the Python™ programming language. Lectures will be interactive featuring in-class exercises with lots of support from the course staff. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

14.385 Nonlinear Econometric Analysis, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Chernozhukov, Victo — 2008-06-26T02:21:08-04:00

This course presents micro-econometric models, including large sample theory for estimation and hypothesis testing, generalized method of moments (GMM), estimation of censored and truncated specifications, quantile regression, structural estimation, nonparametric and semiparametric estimation, treatment effects, panel data, bootstrapping, simulation methods, and Bayesian methods. The methods are illustrated with economic applications.

2.00B Toy Product Design, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Kudrowitz, Barry — 2008-06-19T11:08:47-04:00

Toy Product Design is a MIT Public Service Center learning design course offered in the Spring semester. This course is an introduction to the product design process with a focus on designing for play and entertainment. At the end of the course, students present their toy products at the Playsentations to toy designers, engineers, elementary school children and the MIT community. In this course, students work in small teams of 5-6 members to design and prototype new toys. Students work closely with a local sponsor and experienced mentors on a themed toy design project. Students will be introduced to the product development process, including: determining customer needs; brainstorming; estimation; sketching; sketch modeling; concept development; design aesthetics; detailed design; prototyping; and written, visual, and oral communication. At the end of the course, students present their toy products at the Playsentations to toy designers, engineers, elementary school children and the MIT community.

16.31 Feedback Control Systems, Fall 2007 (MIT)

How, Jonathan — 2008-06-18T03:28:12-04:00

Introduction to the state-space approach to control system analysis and control synthesis. State-space representation of dynamic systems; controllability and observability; state-space realizations of transfer functions; and canonical forms. Design of controllers using state-space methods, including pole placement and optimal control methods. Introduction to the Kalman filter. Limitations on performance of control systems from classical and state-space perspectives. Introduction to robustness of multivariable control systems, using frequency domain techniques. From the course home page: Course Description This course covers the fundamentals of control design and analysis using state-space methods. This includes both the practical and theoretical aspects of the topic. By the end of the course, the student should be able to design controllers using state-space methods and evaluate whether these controllers are robust.

21H.206 American Consumer Culture, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Jacobs, Meg — 2008-06-18T03:41:01-04:00

This class examines how and why twentieth-century Americans came to define the “good life” through consumption, leisure, and material abundance. We will explore how such things as department stores, nationally advertised brand-name goods, mass-produced cars, and suburbs transformed the American economy, society, and politics. The course is organized both thematically and chronologically. Each period deals with a new development in the history of consumer culture. Throughout we explore both celebrations and critiques of mass consumption and abundance.

1.050 Engineering Mechanics I, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Buehler, Markus — 2008-06-17T01:40:38-04:00

This subject provides an introduction to the mechanics of materials and structures. You will be introduced to and become familiar with all relevant physical properties and fundamental laws governing the behavior of materials and structures and you will learn how to solve a variety of problems of interest to civil and environmental engineers. While there will be a chance for you to put your mathematical skills obtained in 18.01, 18.02, and eventually 18.03 to use in this subject, the emphasis is on the physical understanding of why a material or structure behaves the way it does in the engineering design of materials and structures.

HST.161 Molecular Biology and Genetics in Modern Medicine, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Giersch, Anne — 2008-06-16T10:22:01-04:00

Focuses on the scientific, clinical, and ethical aspects of human genetics. Basic science lectures covering molecular genetics are integrated with patient presentations and discussion. An outside project puts each student in direct contact with clinicians, researchers, and patients. During the first part of the class, background for this and other basic science subjects is introduced, while students with stronger backgrounds meet in alternative sections to discuss related advance topics based on reading primary literature. (Only HST students may register under HST.160, graded P/D/F.)

18.310C Principles of Applied Mathematics, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Kleitman, Daniel — 2008-06-13T12:04:44-04:00

Principles of Applied Mathematics is a study of illustrative topics in discrete applied mathematics including sorting algorithms, information theory, coding theory, secret codes, generating functions, linear programming, game theory. There is an emphasis on topics that have direct application in the real world. This course was recently revised to meet the MIT Undergraduate Communication Requirement (CR). It covers the same content as 18.310, but assignments are structured with an additional focus on writing.

18.02 Multivariable Calculus, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Auroux, Denis — 2008-06-13T12:02:35-04:00

This course covers differentiation and integration of functions of one variable, with applications. Topics in differentiation include the definition of differentiation, rules, application to graphing, rates, approximations, and extremum problems. Topics in indefinite integration include separable first-order differential equations and the fundamental theorem of calculus. Other topics covered include applications of integration to geometry and science, elementary functions, techniques of integration, polar coordinates, L'Hôpital's rule, improper integrals, and infinite series: geometric, p-harmonic, simple comparison tests, and formal power series for some elementary functions. From the course home page: Course Description This course covers vector and multi-variable calculus. It is the second semester in the freshman calculus sequence. Topics include vectors and matrices, partial derivatives, double and triple integrals, and vector calculus in 2 and 3-space. MIT OpenCourseWare offers another version of 18.02, from the Spring 2006 term. Both versions cover the same material, although they are taught by different faculty and rely on different textbooks. Multivariable Calculus (18.02) is taught during the Fall and Spring terms at MIT, and is a required subject for all MIT undergraduates.

11.942 Regional Energy-Environmental Economic Modeling, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Polenske, Karen R. — 2008-06-13T11:48:31-04:00

This subject is on regional energy-environmental modeling rather than on general energy-environmental policies, but the models should have some policy relevance. We will start with some discussion of green accounting issues; then, we will cover a variety of theoretical and empirical topics related to spatial energy demand and supply, energy forecasts, national and regional energy prices, and environmental implications of regional energy consumption and production. Where feasible, the topics will have a spatial dimension. This is a new seminar, so we expect students to contribute material to the set of readings and topics covered during the semester.

7.343 The Radical Consequences of Respiration: Reactive Oxygen Species in Aging and Disease, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Rai, Priyamvada — 2008-06-12T03:59:31-04:00

This course will start with a survey of basic oxygen radical biochemistry followed by a discussion of the mechanisms of action of cellular as well as dietary antioxidants. After considering the normal physiological roles of oxidants, we will examine the effects of elevated ROS and a failure of cellular redox capacity on the rate of organismal and cellular aging as well as on the onset and progression of several major diseases that are often age-related. Topics will include ROS-induced effects on stem cell regeneration, insulin resistance, heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. The role of antioxidants in potential therapeutic strategies for modulating ROS levels will also be discussed. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

12.091 Basics of Impact Cratering & Geological, Geophysical, Geochemical, Environmental Studies of Some Impact Craters of the Earth, January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Pillalamarri, Ila — 2008-06-12T03:59:13-04:00

This course introduces impact craters of the Earth. There are now 170 identified impact craters on the Earth, and this number is growing, ever since the well known discovery of Meteor Crater in 1920s. Currently, multi/inter disciplinary research studies of impact structures are getting conducted in fields like mineralogy, petrology, environmental geology and marine biology. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month. From the course home page: Course Description There are now about 170 identified impact craters on the Earth, and this number is growing, ever since the well known discovery of Meteor Crater in 1920s. Currently, multi-interdisciplinary research studies of impact structures are getting conducted in fields like mineralogy, petrology, environmental geology, and marine biology. The course objectives are to introduce basic principles of impact cratering, understand the application of analytical tools, and become familiar with geological, geochemical and environmental studies. This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

12.810 Dynamics of the Atmosphere, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Lindzen, Richard — 2008-06-12T02:03:52-04:00

This course begins with a study of the role of dynamics in the general physics of the atmosphere, the consideration of the differences between modeling and approximation, and the observed large-scale phenomenology of the atmosphere. Only then are the basic equations derived in rigorous manner. The equations are then applied to important problems and methodologies in meteorology and climate, with discussions of the history of the topics where appropriate. Problems include the Hadley circulation and its role in the general circulation, atmospheric waves including gravity and Rossby waves and their interaction with the mean flow, with specific applications to the stratospheric quasi-biennial oscillation, tides, the super-rotation of Venus' atmosphere, the generation of atmospheric turbulence, and stationary waves among other problems. The quasi-geostrophic approximation is derived, and the resulting equations are used to examine the hydrodynamic stability of the circulation with applications ranging from convective adjustment to climate.

SP.691 Studies in Women's Life Narratives: Interrogating Marriage: Case Studies in American Law and Culture, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Bergland, Renee — 2008-06-11T04:50:04-04:00

Is marriage a patriarchal institution? Much feminist scholarship has characterized it that way, but now in the context of the recent Massachusetts Supreme Court decision legalizing gay marriage, the meaning of marriage itself demands serious re-examination. This course will discuss history, literature, film, and legal scholarship, making use of cross-cultural, sociological, anthropological, and many other theoretical approaches to the marriage question from 1630 to the present. As it turns out, sex, marriage, and the family have never been stable institutions; to the contrary, they have continued to function as flash points for the very social and cultural questions that are central to gender studies scholarship.

SP.723 D-Lab: Disseminating Innovations for the Common Good, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Murcott, Susan — 2008-06-11T10:47:33-04:00

This course focuses on Third World development using case studies and team collaboration. Students draw lessons from success stories and identify challenges, unintended consequences and failures in implementing technologies, projects and policies. Students acquire skills in the building of partnerships and learn how to pilot, implement, and scale-up a selected innovation for the common good. Teams develop an idea, project or business plan that is ready to roll by semester's end. From the course home page: Course Description Third in the trilogy of D-Lab courses, D-Lab III focuses on disseminating innovations among underserved communities, especially in developing countries. Students acquire skills related to building partnerships and piloting, financing, implementing, and scaling-up a selected innovation for the common good. The course is structured around MIT and outside competitions. Teams develop an idea, project or (social) business plan that is "ready to roll" by term's end. Course includes an on-line forum discussion board, student-led case studies and a final proposal or business plan for realizing your dream innovation.

6.334 Power Electronics, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Perreault, David — 2008-06-09T03:50:45-04:00

The application of electronics to energy conversion and control; phase-controlled rectifier/inverter circuits, dc/dc converters, high-frequency inverters, and motion control systems. Characteristics of power semiconductor devices: diodes, bipolar and field effect transistors, IGBTS, and thyristors. Modeling, analysis, and control techniques. Magnetic circuits. Numerous application examples.

6.101 Introductory Analog Electronics Laboratory, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Roscoe, Byron — 2008-06-09T03:47:06-04:00

Introductory experimental laboratory explores the design, construction, and debugging of analog electronic circuits. Lectures and six laboratory projects investigate the performance characteristics of diodes, transistors, JFETs and op-amps, including the construction of a small audio amplifier and preamplifier. Seven weeks are devoted to the design and implementation of a project in an environment similar to that of engineering design teams in industry. Provides opportunity to simulate real-world problems and solutions that involve tradeoffs and the use of engineering judgement.

12.425 Extrasolar Planets: Physics and Detection Techniques, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Seager, Sara — 2008-06-09T12:38:19-04:00

Basic principles of planet atmospheres and interiors applied to the study of extrasolar planets (exoplanets). Focus on fundamental physical processes related to observable exoplanet properties. Quantitative overview of detection techniques. Introduction to the feasibility of the search for Earth-like planets, biosignatures and habitable conditions on exoplanets.

2.003J Dynamics and Control I, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Sarma, Sanjay — 2008-06-09T12:36:30-04:00

This class is an introduction to the dynamics and vibrations of lumped-parameter models of mechanical systems. Topics include kinematics; force-momentum formulation for systems of particles and rigid bodies in planar motion; work-energy concepts; virtual displacements and virtual work; Lagrange's equations for systems of particles and rigid bodies in planar motion; linearization of equations of motion; linear stability analysis of mechanical systems; free and forced vibration of linear multi-degree of freedom models of mechanical systems; and matrix eigenvalue problems. The class includes an introduction to numerical methods and using MATLAB® to solve dynamics and vibrations problems.

5.33 Advanced Chemical Experimentation and Instrumentation, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Tokmakoff, Andrei — 2008-05-30T01:28:14-04:00

Advanced experimentation, with particular emphasis on chemical synthesis and the fundamentals of quantum chemistry illustrated through molecular spectroscopy. Instruction and practice in the written and oral presentation of experimental results.

9.15 Biochemistry and Pharmacology of Synaptic Transmission, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Wurtman, Richard — 2008-05-30T01:27:49-04:00

Considers the process of neurotransmission, especially chemicals used in the brain and elsewhere to carry signals from nerve terminals to the structures they innervate. Focuses on monoamine transmitters (acetylcholine; serotonin; dopamine and norepinephrine); also examines amino acid and peptide transmitters and neuromodulators like adenosine. Macromolecules that mediate neurotransmitter synthesis, release, inactivation, and receptor-mediated actions are discussed, as well as factors that regulate their activity and the second-messenger systems they control. Alternate years.

18.098 Street-Fighting Mathematics, January (IAP) 2008 (MIT)

Mahajan, Sanjoy — 2008-05-27T10:03:51-04:00

This course teaches the art of guessing results and solving problems without doing a proof or an exact calculation. Techniques include extreme-cases reasoning, dimensional analysis, successive approximation, discretization, generalization, and pictorial analysis. Applications include mental calculation, solid geometry, musical intervals, logarithms, integration, infinite series, solitaire, and differential equations. (No epsilons or deltas are harmed by taking this course.) This course is offered during the Independent Activities Period (IAP), which is a special 4-week term at MIT that runs from the first week of January until the end of the month.

12.090 Special Topics: An Introduction to Fluid Motions, Sediment Transport, and Current-generated Sedimentary Structures, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Southard, John — 2008-05-22T01:34:37-04:00

This course begins by introducing students to aspects of fluid dynamics relevant to transport and deposition of particulate sedimentary materials. Emphasis is on the structure of turbulent shear flows and the forces exerted by fluid motions on bed of loosed sediment. With fluid dynamics as background, the course deals with sediment movement as bed load and suspended load, and with the geometry, kinematics, and dynamics of ripple and dune bed forms. The course concludes with basic material on the styles of current-generated primary sedimentary structures, with emphasis on cross stratification.

ESD.04J Frameworks and Models in Engineering Systems / Engineering System Design, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Sussman, Joseph — 2008-05-15T01:22:11-04:00

This class provides an introduction to quantitative models and qualitative frameworks for studying complex engineering systems. Also taught is the art of abstracting a complex system into a model for purposes of analysis and design while dealing with complexity, emergent behavior, stochasticity, non-linearities and the requirements of many stakeholders with divergent objectives. The successful completion of the class requires a semester-long class project that deals with critical contemporary issues which require an integrative, interdisciplinary approach using the above models and frameworks.

3.A27 Case Studies in Forensic Metallurgy, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Russell, Kenneth C. — 2008-05-06T02:41:31-04:00

TV programs such as "Law and Order" show how forensic experts are called upon to give testimony that often determines the outcome of court cases. Engineers are one class of expert who can help display evidence in a new light to solve cases. In this seminar you will be part of the problem-solving process, working through both previously solved and unsolved cases. Each week we will investigate cases, from the facts that make up each side to the potential evidence we can use as engineers to expose culprits. The cases range from disintegrating airplane engines to gas main explosions to Mafia murders. This seminar will be full of discussions about the cases and creative approaches to reaching the solutions. The approach is hands-on so you will have a chance to participate in the process, not simply study it. Some background reading and oral presentation are required.

21F.027J Visualizing Cultures, Spring 2008 (MIT)

Professor John Dower — 2008-05-06T11:24:26-04:00

Extensive reading and discussion of how visual images impose a variety of identities on individuals and societies. Case studies drawn primarily from the Pacific region, and include: identities of individuals in a society; identities of a country through history; us/them in times of war; and identities of an entire geographic region of the world (Orient/Occident). All types of visual images from both popular and high cultures are discussed. Students develop a course project. Taught in English. From the course home page: Course Description In this new course, students will study how images have been used to shape the identity of peoples and cultures. A prototype digital project looking at American and Japanese graphics depicting the opening of Japan to the outside world in the 1850s will be used as a case study to introduce the conceptual and practical issues involved in "visualizing cultures". The major course requirement will be creation and presentation of a project involving visualized cultures.

6.973 Communication System Design, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Stojanovic, Vladimir — 2008-04-17T12:43:36-04:00

This course presents a top-down approach to communications system design. The course will cover communication theory, algorithms and implementation architectures for essential blocks in modern physical-layer communication systems (coders and decoders, filters, multi-tone modulation, synchronization sub-systems). The course is hands-on, with a project component serving as a vehicle for study of different communication techniques, architectures and implementations. This year, the project is focused on WLAN transceivers. At the end of the course, students will have gone through the complete WLAN System-On-a-Chip design process, from communication theory, through algorithm and architecture all the way to the synthesized standard-cell RTL chip representation.

22.312 Engineering of Nuclear Reactors, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Buongiorno, Jacopo — 2008-04-17T12:41:41-04:00

Engineering principles of nuclear reactors, emphasizing power reactors. Power plant thermodynamics, reactor heat generation and removal (single-phase as well as two-phase coolant flow and heat transfer), and structural mechanics. Engineering considerations in reactor design.

3.032 Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Fall 2007 (MIT)

van Vliet, Krystyn — 2008-04-17T12:40:47-04:00

Here we will learn about the mechanical behavior of structures and materials, from the continuum description of properties to the atomistic and molecular mechanisms that confer those properties to all materials. We will cover elastic and plastic deformation, creep, and fracture of materials including crystalline and amorphous metals, ceramics, and (bio)polymers, and will focus on the design and processing of materials from the atomic to the macroscale to achieve desired mechanical behavior. Integrated laboratories provide the opportunity to explore these concepts through hands-on experiments including instrumentation of pressure vessels, visualization of atomistic deformation in bubble rafts; nanoindentation, and uniaxial mechanical testing; as well as writing assignments to communicate these findings to either general scientific or nontechnical audiences.

3.063 Polymer Physics, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Thomas, Edwin (Ned) — 2008-04-10T06:30:08-04:00

The electrical, optical, transport, and mechanical properties of polymers are presented with respect to the underlying physics and physical chemistry of polymers in melt, solution, and solid state. Topics include conformation and molecular dimensions of polymer chains in solutions, melts, blends, and block copolymers. Examination of the structure of glassy, crystalline, and rubbery elastic states of polymers; thermodynamics of polymer solutions and blends, and crystallization; liquid crystallinity, microphase separation, and self-assembled systems. Case studies of relationships between structure and function in technologically important polymeric systems.

14.01 Principles of Microeconomics, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Chen, Chia-Hui — 2008-04-07T03:30:53-04:00

Introduces microeconomic concepts and analysis, supply and demand analysis, theories of the firm and individual behavior, competition and monopoly, and welfare economics. Applications to problems of current economic policy. From the course home page: Course Description This introductory course teaches the fundamentals of microeconomics. Topics include consumer theory, producer theory, the behavior of firms, market equilibrium, monopoly, and the role of the government in the economy. 14.01 is a Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) elective and is offered both terms.

21L.012 Forms of Western Narrative, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Buzard, James — 2008-04-07T03:11:03-04:00

Major narrative texts from diverse Western cultures, beginning with Homer and concluding with at least one film. Emphasis on literary and cultural issues: on the artistic significance of the chosen texts and on their identity as anthropological artifacts whose conventions and assumptions are rooted in particular times, places, and technologies. Syllabus varies, but always includes a sampling of popular culture (folk tales, ballads) as well as some landmark narratives such as the Iliad or the Odyssey, Don Quixote, Anna Karenina, Ulysses, and a classic film. From the course home page: Course Description This course examines some leading examples of major genres of storytelling in the Western tradition, among them epic (Homer's Odyssey), romance (from the Arthurian tradition), and novel (Cervantes's Don Quixote). We will be asking why people tell (and have always told) stories, how they tell them, why they might tell them the way they do, and what difference it makes how they tell them. We'll combine an investigation of the changing formal properties of narratives with consideration of the historical, cultural, and technological factors that have influenced how tales got told. In keeping with its CI-H and HASS-D label, this course will involve substantial attention to students' writing and speaking abilities.

15.223 Global Markets, National Policies, and the Competitive Advantages of Firms, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Locke, Richard M., 1959- — 2008-03-28T01:13:02-04:00

The world is changing in two fundamental ways. First, the development of a truly global market in products, services, capital and even certain types of labor is changing the basic terms of competition for an array of different firms and industries. Second, the rules and institutions governing the new international economic order are still in flux. National regulations are no longer adequate yet international accords over trade, intellectual property, labor standards and a host of other issues are fiercely and frequently contested by competing interests. The final results of these debates will determine who wins and who loses in the new global economy. Understanding the interaction between environment and business around the world is key to understanding both the possibilities for and constraints on either managing an existing or starting a new business in today’s fast-changing economy.

12.742 Marine Chemistry, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Doney, Scott — 2008-03-28T01:11:37-04:00

An introduction to chemical oceanography. Reservoir models and residence time. Major ion composition of seawater. Inputs to and outputs from the ocean via rivers, the atmosphere, and the sea floor. Biogeochemical cycling within the oceanic water column and sediments, emphasizing the roles played by the formation, transport, and alteration of oceanic particles and the effects that these processes have on seawater composition. Cycles of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, oxygen, and sulfur. Uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide by the ocean. Material presented through lectures and student-led presentation and discussion of recent papers.

2.782J Design of Medical Devices and Implants, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Spector, Myron — 2008-03-20T03:50:37-04:00

Solution of clinical problems by use of implants and other medical devices. Systematic use of cell-matrix control volumes. The role of stress analysis in the design process. Anatomic fit: shape and size of implants. Selection of biomaterials. Instrumentation for surgical implantation procedures. Preclinical testing for safety and efficacy: risk/benefit ratio assessment. Evaluation of clinical performance: design of clinical trials. Project materials drawn from orthopedic devices, soft tissue implants, artificial organs, and dental implants.

21H.914 Jewish History from Biblical to Modern Times, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Temin, Peter — 2008-03-12T01:21:36-04:00

How our views of Jewish history have been formed and how this history can explain the survival of the Jews as an ethnic/religious group into the present day. Special attention to the partial and fragmentary nature of our information about the past, and the difficulties inherent in decoding statements about the past that were written with a religious agenda in mind. Considers complex events in Jewish history -- from early history as portrayed in the Bible to recent history, including the Holocaust.

12.491 Biogeochemistry of Sulfur, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Ono, Shuhei — 2008-03-06T11:50:16-05:00

This course is designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current research around sulfur biogeochemistry and astrobiology.

21M.775 Hip Hop, Fall 2007 (MIT)

DeFrantz, Thomas — 2008-03-06T11:49:53-05:00

Subject explores the political and aesthetic foundations of hip hop. Students trace the musical, corporeal, visual, spoken word, and literary manifestations of hip hop over its thirty year presence in the American cultural imagery. Students also investigate specific black cultural practices that have given rise to its various idioms. Students create material culture related to each thematic section of the course. Scheduled work in performance studio help students understand how hip hop is created and assessed.

SP.401 Introduction to Women's and Gender Studies, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Walsh, Andrea — 2008-02-24T11:43:22-05:00

An interdisciplinary subject that draws on literature, history, psychology, philosophy, anthropology, and feminist theory to examine our cultural assumptions about gender, trace the effects of new scholarship on traditional disciplines, and increase awareness of the history and experience of women as half the world's population. From the course home page: Course Description This course offers an introduction to Women's and Gender Studies, an interdisciplinary academic field that asks critical questions about the meaning of gender in society. The primary goal of this course is to familiarize students with key issues, questions and debates in Women's and Gender Studies scholarship, both historical and contemporary. Gender scholarship critically analyzes themes of gendered performance and power in a range of social spheres, such as law, culture, work, medicine and the family.

7.344 The Fountain of Life: From Dolly to Customized Embryonic Stem Cells, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Meissner, Alexander — 2008-02-01T12:38:43-05:00

During development, the genetic content of each cell remains, with a few exceptions, identical to that of the zygote. Most differentiated cells therefore retain all of the genetic information necessary to generate an entire organism. It was through pioneering technology of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) that this concept was experimentally proven. Only 10 years ago the sheep Dolly was the first mammal to be cloned from an adult organism, demonstrating that the differentiated state of a mammalian cell can be fully reversible to a pluripotent embryonic state. A key conclusion from these experiments was that the difference between pluripotent cells such as embryonic stem (ES) cells and unipotent differentiated cells is solely a consequence of reversible changes. These changes, which have proved to involve reversible alterations to both DNA and to proteins that bind DNA, are known as epigenetic, to distinguish them from genetic alterations to DNA sequence. In this course we will explore such epigenetic changes and study different approaches that can return a differentiated cell to an embryonic state in a process referred to as epigenetic reprogramming, which will ultimately allow generation of patient-specific stem cells and application to regenerative therapy. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.

21L.715 Media in Cultural Context: Popular Readerships, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Brouillette, Sarah, 1977- — 2008-01-29T12:40:36-05:00

Seminar designed to provide close case study examinations of specific media or media configurations and the larger social, cultural, economic, political, or technological contexts within which they operate. Subject organized around recurring themes in media history, specific genres or movements, specific media, or specific historical moments. Instruction and practice in written and oral communication. Topic: Comics, Cartoons, and Graphic Storytelling. Meets with CMS.871, but assignments differ. From the course home page: Course Description What is the history of popular reading in the Western world? How does widespread access to print relate to distinctions between highbrow and lowbrow culture, between good taste and bad judgment, and between men and women readers? This course will introduce students to the broad history of popular reading and to controversies about taste and gender that have characterized its development. Our grounding in historical material will help make sense of our main focus: recent developments in the theory and practice of reading, including fan-fiction, Oprah's book club, comics, hypertext, mass-market romance fiction, mega-chain bookstores, and reader response theory.

18.S34 Problem Solving Seminar, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Stanley, Richard — 2008-01-28T03:35:14-05:00

This course is an undergraduate seminar on mathematical problem solving. It is intended for students who enjoy solving challenging mathematical problems and who are interested in learning various techniques and background information useful for problem solving. From the course home page: Course Description This course, which is geared toward Freshmen, is an undergraduate seminar on mathematical problem solving. It is intended for students who enjoy solving challenging mathematical problems and who are interested in learning various techniques and background information useful for problem solving. Students in this course are expected to compete in a nationwide mathematics contest for undergraduates.

8.02 Physics II: Electricity and Magnetism, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Belcher, John — 2008-01-25T12:04:44-05:00

This freshman-level course is the second semester of introductory physics. The focus is on electricity and magnetism The subject is taught using the TEAL (Technology Enabled Active Learning) format which utilizes small group interaction and current technology. The TEAL/Studio Project at MIT is a new approach to physics education designed to help students develop much better intuition about, and conceptual models of, physical phenomena.

6.450 Principles of Digital Communications I, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Gallager, Robert — 2008-01-14T12:13:10-05:00

The course serves as an introduction to the theory and practice behind many of today's communications systems. 6.450 forms the first of a two-course sequence on digital communication. The second class, 6.451, is offered in the spring. Topics covered include: digital communications at the block diagram level, data compression, Lempel-Ziv algorithm, scalar and vector quantization, sampling and aliasing, the Nyquist criterion, PAM and QAM modulation, signal constellations, finite-energy waveform spaces, detection, and modeling and system design for wireless communication.

22.05 Neutron Science and Reactor Physics, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Bernard, John — 2008-01-10T11:52:14-05:00

Sources of neutrons and their interactions are explored leading to modeling of neutron transport. Introduces fundamental properties of the neutron. Applications of nuclear physics include reactor physics in the design of nuclear reactors. Covers reactions induced by neutrons, nuclear fission, slowing down of neutrons in infinite media, diffusion theory, the few-group approximation, and point kinetics. Emphasizes the nuclear physics bases of reactor design and its relationship to reactor engineering problems.

6.002 Circuits and Electronics, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Agarwal, Anant — 2008-01-04T01:10:54-05:00

Fundamentals of the lumped circuit abstraction. Resistive elements and networks; independent and dependent sources; switches and MOS devices; digital abstraction; amplifiers; and energy storage elements. Dynamics of first- and second-order networks; design in the time and frequency domains; analog and digital circuits and applications. Design exercises. Alternate week laboratory. Enrollment may be limited.

6.824 Distributed Computer Systems Engineering, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Morris, Robert — 2007-12-19T12:03:42-05:00

Abstractions and implementation techniques for design of distributed systems; server design, network programming, naming, storage systems, security, and fault tolerance. Readings from current literature. 6 Engineering Design Points.

8.231 Physics of Solids I, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Wen, Xiao-Gang — 2007-12-04T05:59:23-05:00

Introduction to the basic concepts of the quantum theory of solids. Topics: periodic structure and symmetry of crystals; diffraction; reciprocal lattice; chemical bonding; lattice dynamics, phonons, thermal properties; free electron gas; model of metals; Bloch theorem and band structure, nearly free electron approximation; tight binding method; Fermi surface; semiconductors, electrons, holes, impurities; optical properties, excitons; and magnetism.

HST.410J Projects in Microscale Engineering for the Life Sciences, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Freeman, Dennis — 2007-11-26T11:24:07-05:00

This course is a project-based introduction to manipulating and characterizing cells and biological molecules using microfabricated tools. It is designed for first year undergraduate students. In the first half of the term, students perform laboratory exercises designed to introduce (1) the design, manufacture, and use of microfluidic channels, (2) techniques for sorting and manipulating cells and biomolecules, and (3) making quantitative measurements using optical detection and fluorescent labeling In the second half of the term, students work in small groups to design and test a microfluidic device to solve a real-world problem of their choosing. Includes exercises in written and oral communication and team building.

14.129 Advanced Contract Theory, Spring 2005 (MIT)

Izmalkov, Sergei — 2007-11-26T11:15:52-05:00

Recent developments in contract theory. Includes advanced models of moral hazard, adverse selection, mechanism design and incomplete contracts with applications to theory of the firm, organizational design, and financial structure.

21L.016 Learning from the Past: Drama, Science, Performance, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Henderson, Diana — 2007-11-26T11:15:06-05:00

history, art and science, art vs. science, history of science, religion, natural philosophy, mathematics, literature, cosmology,physics, astronomy, alchemy, chemistry, plays, theater history, cultural studies, Shakespeare, Ford, Tate, Behn, Francis Bacon, Burton, Hobbes, Boyle, 17th century, England, english history, Charles I, Charles II, Cromwell, From the course home page: Course Description This class explores the creation (and creativity) of the modern scientific and cultural world through study of western Europe in the 17th century, the age of Descartes and Newton, Shakespeare, Rembrandt and Moliere. It compares period thinking to present-day debates about the scientific method, art, religion, and society. This team-taught, interdisciplinary subject draws on a wide range of literary, dramatic, historical, and scientific texts and images, and involves theatrical experimentation as well as reading, writing, researching and conversing.

24.963 Linguistic Phonetics, Fall 2005 (MIT)

Flemming, Edward — 2007-11-26T11:14:38-05:00

The study of speech sounds: how we produce and perceive them and their acoustic properties. The influence of the production and perception systems on phonological patterns and sound change. Acoustic analysis and experimental techniques.

12.759 Marine Chemistry Seminar, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Mooy, Benjamin Van — 2007-11-26T11:14:18-05:00

The structure of the course is designed to have students acquire a broad understanding of the field of Marine Chemistry; to get a feel for experimental methodologies, the results that they have generated and the theoretical insights they have yielded to date.

12.746 Marine Organic Geochemistry, Spring 2005 (MIT)

Eglinton, Timothy — 2007-11-26T11:14:03-05:00

Provides an understanding of the distribution of organic carbon (OC) in marine sediments from a global and molecular-level perspective. Surveys the mineralization and preservation of OC in the water column and within anoxic and oxic marine sediments. Topics include: OC composition, reactivity and budgets within, and fluxes through, major reservoirs; microbial recycling pathways for OC; models for OC degradation and preservation; role of anoxia in OC burial; relationships between dissolved and particulate (sinking and suspended) OC; methods for characterization of sedimentary organic matter; application of biological markers as tools in oceanography. Both structural and isotopic aspects are covered.

14.11 Special Topics in Economics: The Challenge of World Poverty, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Banerjee, Abhijit — 2007-11-26T11:12:18-05:00

This is a course for those who are interested in the challenge posed by massive and persistent world poverty, have some economics, and believe that economists might have something useful to say about this question. The questions we will take up include: Is extreme poverty a thing of the past? Why do some countries grow fast and others fall further behind? Does growth help the poor? Does foreign aid help? What can we do about corruption? Should we leave it all to the markets? Should we leave it to the NGOs? Where is the best place to intervene? How do we deal with the disease burden? How do we improve schools? And many others.

24.910 Topics in Linguistic Theory: Laboratory Phonology, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Flemming, Edward — 2007-11-26T11:12:02-05:00

The goal of this course is to prepare you to engage in experimental investigations of questions related to linguistic theory, focusing on phonetics and phonology.

14.04 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Izmalkov, Sergei — 2007-11-26T11:11:07-05:00

Basic theory of consumer behavior, production and costs, partial equilibrium analysis of pricing in competitive and monopolistic markets, general equilibrium, welfare, and externalities. Credit not given for both 14.03 and 14.04. May not count toward HASS Requirement. Recommended for students planning to apply to graduate school in economics, accounting, or finance.

21F.225 Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS), Spring 2007 (MIT)

Dunphy, Jane — 2007-11-21T11:38:06-05:00

Analysis and practice of various forms of scientific and technical writing, from memos to journal articles. Strategies for conveying technical information to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Comparable to 21W.780 but methods designed to deal with special problems of advanced ELS or bilingual students. The goal of the workshop is to develop effective writing skills for academic and professional contexts. Models, materials, topics and assignments vary from semester to semester.

4.001J CityScope: New Orleans, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Thompson, J. Phillip — 2007-11-21T11:37:17-05:00

Do you want to think about ways to help solve New Orleans’ problems? Cityscope is a project-based introduction to the contemporary city. "Problem solving in complex (urban) environments" is different than "solving complex problems." As a member of a team, you will learn to assess scenarios for the purpose of formulating social, economic and design strategies to provide humane and sustainable solutions. A visit to New Orleans is planned for spring break 2007.

10.37 Chemical and Biological Reaction Engineering, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Green, William Jr. — 2007-11-20T11:33:48-05:00

Introduces the design of chemical reactors via synthesis of chemical kinetics, transport phenomena, and mass and energy balances. Topics: reaction mechanisms and chemical/biochemical pathways; transition-state theory; batch, plug flow and well-stirred reactors; heterogeneous and enzymatic catalysis; heat and mass transport in reactors, including diffusion to and within catalyst particles and cells or immobilized enzymes. From the course home page: Course Description This course applies the concepts of reaction rate, stoichiometry and equilibrium to the analysis of chemical and biological reacting systems, derivation of rate expressions from reaction mechanisms and equilibrium or steady state assumptions, design of chemical and biochemical reactors via synthesis of chemical kinetics, transport phenomena, and mass and energy balances. Topics covered include: chemical/biochemical pathways; enzymatic, pathway, and cell growth kinetics; batch, plug flow and well-stirred reactors for chemical reactions and cultivations of microorganisms and mammalian cells; heterogeneous and enzymatic catalysis; heat and mass transport in reactors, including diffusion to and within catalyst particles and cells or immobilized enzymes.

21F.232 Advanced Speaking and Critical Listening Skills (ELS), Spring 2007 (MIT)

Dunphy, Jane — 2007-11-20T11:31:51-05:00

For advanced students who wish to build confidence and skills in spoken English. Focuses on the appropriate oral presentation of material in a variety of professional contexts: group discussions, classroom explanations and interactions, and theses/research proposals. Valuable for those who intend to teach or lecture in English. Includes language laboratory assignments. The goal of the workshop is to develop effective speaking and listening skills for academic and professional contexts.

24.921 Special Topics in Linguistics: Genericity, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Menéndez-Benito, Paula — 2007-11-20T11:31:30-05:00

Open to qualified graduate students in linguistics who wish to pursue special studies or projects. From the course home page: Course Description This course will investigate the semantics of generic sentences, i.e., sentences that are used to talk about habits, tendencies, dispositions, or kinds. For instance: 1. Dogs are good pets. 2. The giant panda is an endangered species. 3. A soccer player makes lots of money. 4. Mary smokes after dinner. 5. This machine crushes oranges. This is a half-semester course.

SP.776 Design for Demining, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Heafitz, Andrew — 2007-11-20T12:04:44-05:00

Humanitarian Demining is the process of detecting, removing and disposing of landmines. Millions of landmines are buried in more than 80 countries resulting in 20,000 civilian victims every year. MIT Design for Demining is a design course that spans the entire product design and development process from identification of needs and idea generation to prototyping and blast testing to manufacture and deployment. Technical, business and customer aspects are addressed. Students learn about demining while they design, develop and deliver devices to aid the demining community. Past students have invented or improved hand tools, protective gear, safety equipment, educational graphics and teaching materials. Some tools designed in previous years are in use worldwide in the thousands. Course work is informed by a class field trip to a US Army base for demining training and guest expert speakers.

5.92 Energy, Environment, and Society, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Steinfeld, Jeffrey I. — 2007-11-16T02:41:46-05:00

A seminar which addresses technical, economic, political, and environmental issues of chemistry and society. Seminar is intended to give trainees participating in individual research groups that address widely different aspects of chemistry some common ground for thinking about environmental issues, and to develop a wide range of views about how society should deal with the interactions between chemical technology and the environment. From the course home page: Course Description "Energy, Environment and Society" is an opportunity for first-year students to make direct contributions to energy innovations at MIT and in local communities. The class takes a project-based approach, bringing student teams together to conduct studies that will help MIT, Cambridge and Boston to make tangible improvements in their energy management systems. Students will develop a thorough understanding of energy systems and their major components through guest lectures by researchers from across MIT and will apply that knowledge in their projects. Students are involved in all aspects of project design, from the refinement of research questions to data collection and analysis, conclusion drawing and presentation of findings. Each student team will work closely with experts including local stakeholders as well as leading technology companies throughout the development and implementation of their projects. Projects in this course center on renewable energy and energy efficiency.

9.04 Neural Basis of Vision and Audition, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Schiller, Peter — 2007-11-15T04:40:26-05:00

Examines the neural bases of visual and auditory processing for perception and sensorimotor control. Focuses on physiological and anatomical studies of the mammalian nervous system as well as behavioral studies of animals and humans. Studies visual pattern, color and depth perception, auditory responses and speech coding, and spatial localization. Offered alternate years.

15.980J Organizing for Innovative Product Development, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Allen, Tom — 2007-11-15T04:39:17-05:00

This class introduces the subject of innovative new product development. Topics including technology transfer, science and technology, and the innovation process are covered. Students are expected to write a 15-20 page final paper as part of the assignments for the class.

4.406 Ecologies of Construction, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Fernandez, John — 2007-11-15T04:33:27-05:00

Ecologies of Construction examines the resource requirements for the making and maintenance of the contemporary built environment. This course introduces the field of industrial ecology as a primary source of concepts and methods in the mapping of material and energy expenditures dedicated to construction activities.

15.978 Leadership Tools and Teams: A Product Development Lab, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Ancona, Deborah — 2007-11-15T04:32:19-05:00

Provides students opportunities to meet senior executives of private and public institutions, and to discuss key management issues from the perspective of top management. Students prepare detailed briefings identifying and analyzing important management issues facing these organizations. Seminar concludes with a one-week field trip to New York City. Restricted to Sloan Fellows. From the course home page: Course Description In this class you will be creating a leadership development tool for students like yourselves in the leadership program at Sloan. This tool might be a coaching guide for second-year pilots, a leadership workbook for MBA students to use during their summer employment, a leadership assessment for club presidents or a workshop on networking. You will be free to choose the tool that you want to develop, but by the end of the class there must be a product that can be used at Sloan. In addition, the tools must link in some way to the leadership model used at Sloan.

4.430 Daylighting, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Andersen, Marilyne — 2007-11-14T11:46:10-05:00

This class provides the tools necessary for an efficient integration of daylighting issues in the overall design of a building. The fundamentals of daylighting and electric lighting are introduced and their relevance to design decisions emphasized: benefits and availability of daylight, solar radiation and sun course, photometry, vision and color perception, daylighting metrics, visual and thermal comfort, electric lighting. More advanced topics are presented and practiced through the design project and homework assignments, such as primary and advanced lighting design strategies, and design and assessment tools for lighting management.

SP.784 Wheelchair Design in Developing Countries, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Winter V, Amos — 2007-11-13T07:55:29-05:00

This class will give students the chance to better the lives of others by improving wheelchairs and tricycles made in the developing world. According to the United States Agency for International Development, 20 million people in developing countries require wheelchairs, and the United Nations Development Programme estimates below 1% of the need in Africa is being met by local production. Lectures will focus on understanding local factors, such as operating environments, social stigmas against the disabled, and manufacturing constraints, then applying sound scientific/engineering knowledge to develop appropriate technical solutions. Multidisciplinary student teams will conduct term-long projects on topics such as hardware design, manufacturing optimization, biomechanics modeling, and business plan development. Theory will further be connected to real-world implementation during guest lectures by MIT faculty, Third World community partners, and U.S. wheelchair organizations. Funded summer fellowships to implement class projects into African wheelchair workshops will be offered to at least six students. This class is made possible by an MIT Alumni Sponsored Funding Opportunities grant with additional support from the MIT Public Service Center and the Edgerton Center.

12.753 Geodynamics Seminar, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Bice, Karen — 2007-11-09T04:31:15-05:00

In this year's Geodynamics Seminar, we will explore the depth and breadth of scientific research related to Earth's present and past ice-sheets, glaciers and sea-ice, as well as extraterrestrial planetary ice. Invited speakers have been chosen from experts in the current frontiers in ice-related research, including planetary ice, climate records from polar and tropical ice cores, the Snowball Earth, subglacial volcanoes, ice rheology, ice sheet modeling, ice microkinetics, glacial erosion and tectonics, subglacial life and polar remote sensing. A field trip to Iceland in Summer 2006 will allow us to view some of the island's ice caps and glacial geology, the exposed mid Atlantic Ridge and evidence of ice-volcano interactions.

4.401 Introduction to Building Technology, Spring 2006 (MIT)

Andersen, Marilyne — 2007-11-09T04:30:39-05:00

Explores the application of building technology to architecture through considerations of building construction -- materials and methods -- and systems -- structure, enclosure, climate and utility services, light, acoustics, fire safety, and accessibility. Includes lectures, laboratory exercises, site visits, problem sets, and a semester-long student investigation of a precedent building. Required of Course IV majors. From the course home page: Course Description The course aims at providing a fundamental understanding of the physics related to buildings and to propose an overview of the various issues that have to be adequately combined to offer the occupants a physical, functional and psychological well-being. Students will be guided through the different components, constraints and systems of a work of architecture. These will be examined both independently and in the manner in which they interact and affect one another.

12.753 Geodynamics Seminar, Spring 2001 (MIT)

Sohn, Robert — 2007-11-09T04:27:38-05:00

The Earth's crust is primarily composed of melting products from mantle plumes and mid-ocean ridges - both presently and over the course of Earth history. While both systems represent upwelling features in a convective mantle, they can be viewed as end-member systems in that plumes represent buoyant flow whereas mid-ocean ridges represent passive corner flow. This paradigm is not strict - flow beneath ridges may be buoyant in some places, for example, but it does provide a reasonable framework for enquiry. Plumes and ridges can be studied independently, but in many places across the globe the systems interact, often in intriguing fashion. The nature of these interactions provides an opportunity to improve our understanding of both systems, and provides new perspectives on the mantle, crustal, and water column processes associated converting heat from the Earth's interior into new crust, hydrothermal flow, and biological communities on the seafloor. The approach taken for the 2001 Plume-Ridge Interactions Seminar series was to start with basic ideas about mantle convection and tectonics, and an overview of the global hotspot and ridge systems. We then addressed three case studies of plume-ridge interactions in detail. Our first case was the interaction of the Iceland plume - one of the largest plumes in the world - with the Northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge. We then turned to the interaction of the Galapagos plume with the Galapagos Spreading Center, and finished with the interaction of the Cobb Plume with the Juan de Fuca Ridge. Each of these systems provides a different perspective on the nature of plume-ridge interactions, and by comparison and contrast we are able to distill the fundamental aspects out of the complex array of geophysical and geochemical data associated with plume-ridge systems.

11.434J Advanced Topics in Real Estate Finance, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Geltner, David — 2007-11-09T01:07:39-05:00

This half-semester course introduces and surveys a selection of cutting-edge topics in the field of real estate finance and investments. The course follows an informal “seminar” format to the maximum degree possible, with students expected to take considerable initiative. Lectures and discussions led by the instructors will be supplemented by several guest speakers from the real estate investment industry, who will present perspectives on current trends and important developments in the industry.

11.432J Real Estate Capital Markets, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Geltner, David — 2007-11-07T11:37:28-05:00

This half-semester course introduces and surveys the major public capital market real estate vehicles, REITs and MBS (with primary emphasis on CMBS). Some background is also included in basic modern portfolio theory and equilibrium asset pricing. This course is primarily designed to provide MSRED students with a basic introduction to the public capital market sources of financial capital for real estate, and how those markets value such capital investments.

11.233 Research Design for Policy Analysis and Planning, Fall 2007 (MIT)

Carmin, JoAnn — 2007-11-07T11:36:57-05:00

This course develops skills in research design for policy analysis and planning. The emphasis is on the logic of the research process and its constituent elements. The course relies on a seminar format so students are expected to read all of the assigned materials and come to class prepared to discuss key themes, ideas, and controversies. Since the materials draw broadly on the social sciences, and since students have diverse interests and methodological preferences, ongoing themes in our discussions will be linking concepts to planning scholarship in general and considering how different epistemological orientations and methodological techniques map on to planning specializations.

12.110 Sedimentary Geology, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Southard, John — 2007-11-07T11:36:40-05:00

Survey of the important aspects of modern sediments and ancient sedimentary rocks. Emphasis is on fundamental materials, features, and processes. Textures of siliciclastic sediments and sedimentary rocks: particle size, particle shape, and particle packing. Mechanics of sediment transport. Survey of siliciclastic sedimentary rocks: sandstones, conglomerates, and shales. Carbonate sediments and sedimentary rocks; cherts; evaporites. Siliciclastic and carbonate diagenesis. Paleontology, with special reference to fossils in sedimentary rocks. Modern and ancient depositional environments. Stratigraphy. Sedimentary basins. Fossil fuels: coal, petroleum.

11.431J Real Estate Finance and Investment, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Geltner, David — 2007-11-07T11:31:01-05:00

This course is an introduction to the most fundamental concepts, principles, analytical methods and tools useful for making investment and finance decisions regarding commercial real estate assets. As the first of a two-course sequence, this course will focus on the basic building blocks and the "micro" level, which pertains to individual properties and deals.

12.753 Geodynamics Seminar, Spring 2005 (MIT)

Montési, Laurent Gilbert Joseph, 1973- — 2007-11-07T01:00:45-05:00

In this year's seminar, we will embark on a scientific journey through some of the most controversial topics about the origin and formation of our home planet. This journey will take us to other planetary bodies - even to other solar systems - as we immerse ourselves in observations and theories from the microscopic to the universe scale. From the course home page: Course Description In this year's seminar, we will embark on a scientific journey through some of the most controversial topics about the origin and formation of our home planet. This journey will take us to other planetary bodies - even to other solar systems - as we immerse ourselves in observations and theories from the microscopic to the universe scale. The seminar will be organized around three broad questions: How was the Earth formed? What did early Earth look like? When did living organisms first appear on Earth? Experts in meteorites, geology of other planets, thermodynamics and tracers of living organisms, and theories of formation and evolution of planets, including early atmosphere and oceans, will come to WHOI and help us address these questions.

11.479J Water and Sanitation Infrastructure in Developing Countries, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Murcott, Susan — 2007-11-07T01:00:08-05:00

The class deals with the principles of infrastructure planning in developing countries, with a focus on appropriate and sustainable technologies for water and sanitation. It also incorporates technical, socio-cultural, public health, and economic factors into the planning and design of water and sanitation systems. Upon completion, students will be able to plan simple, yet reliable, water supply and sanitation systems for developing countries that are compatible with local customs and available human and material resources. Graduate and upper division students from any department who are interested in international development at the grassroots level are encouraged to participate in this interdisciplinary subject.

12.090 Special Topics in Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences: The Environment of the Earth's Surface, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Southard, John — 2007-11-06T11:31:11-05:00

A great variety of processes affect the surface of the Earth. Topics to be covered are production and movement of surficial materials; soils and soil erosion; precipitation; streams and lakes; groundwater flow; glaciers and their deposits. The course combines aspects of geology, climatology, hydrology, and soil science to present a coherent introduction to the surface of the Earth, with emphasis on both fundamental concepts and practical applications, as a basis for understanding and intelligent management of the Earth's physical and chemical environment.

2.29 Numerical Fluid Mechanics, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Schmidt, Henrik — 2007-11-06T12:02:18-05:00

This course introduces students to MATLAB. Numerical methods include number representation and errors, interpolation, differentiation, integration, systems of linear equations, and Fourier interpolation and transforms. Students will study partial and ordinary differential equations as well as elliptic and parabolic differential equations, and solutions by numerical integration, finite difference methods, finite element methods, boundary element methods, and panel methods.

24.954 Pragmatics in Linguistic Theory, Fall 2006 (MIT)

Fox, Daniel — 2007-11-05T11:30:00-05:00

Formal theories of context-dependency, presupposition, implicature, context-change, focus and topic. Special emphasis on the division of labor between semantics and pragmatics. Applications to the analysis of quantification, definiteness, presupposition projection, conditionals and modality, anaphora, questions and answers.

21M.051 Fundamentals of Music, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Wood, Pamela — 2007-11-05T11:21:59-05:00

Introduces students to the basics of musical structure and proficiencies expected of musicians through participation in three integrated hands-on approaches. Lectures introduce students to the basics of music--pitch, rhythm, and its combinations--in a variety of musical settings, including analysis and discussion of students' compositions and of related larger works. Sight-singing lab focuses on developing practical musical skills through oral, aural, and written experiences with rhythms, melodies, intervals, scales, chords, and music notation. Piano lab introduces and continues development of fundamental music skills through keyboard practice. From the course home page: Course Description This class introduces students to the rudiments of Western music through oral, aural, and written practice utilizing rhythm, melody, intervals, scales, chords, and musical notation. The approach is based upon the inclusive Kodály philosophy of music education. Individual skills are addressed through a variety of means, emphasizing singing and keyboard practice in the required piano labs.

21M.410 Vocal Repertoire and Performance: Women Composers, Spring 2007 (MIT)

Wood, Pamela — 2007-11-05T11:21:46-05:00

For the singer and/or pianist interested in collaborative study of solo vocal performance. Historical study of the repertoire includes listening assignments of representative French, German, Italian, and English works as sung by noted vocal artists of the genre. Topics include diction as facilitated by the study of the International Phonetic Alphabet; performance and audition techniques; and study of body awareness and alignment through the Alexander Technique and yoga. Admission by audition. Required for all Emerson Vocal Scholars. See description under subject *UNKNOWN*. From the course home page: Course Description This course is for the singer and/or pianist interested in collaborative study of solo vocal performance. This term we will focus upon the works of Women Composers. Students will gather biographical data and explore art songs, operatic arias, choral masterpieces, and arrangements employing sacred and secular texts. Additionally, students will conduct inquiry into works indicative of their own heritage.