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Through an incredible collection of images and commentary, Asia in the Modern World: Images & Representations looks at the clash of cultures that occurred when Commodore Perry journeyed to Japan, ushering in the first real contact between Europe and Japan. The course looks at "cultures" in the broadest sense, including war, racism, nationalism, propaganda and atrocity. Some of the images can be difficult to view out of context, so please be sure to read the commentary.
Instructors: Prof. John Dower and Prof. Shigeru Miyagawa
Features: Images with commentary
Best for: Anyone interested in an in-depth, thoughtful look at a clash of cultures.
J-PAL’s goal is to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is based on scientific evidence. In this five-day program on evaluation methods, you’ll learn to understand randomized evaluation, including pragmatic step-by-step training for conducting your own evaluation, and ways to manage threats to the validity of your evaluation.
Instructors: Prof. Esther Duflo, Prof. Abhijit Banerjee and Dr. Rachel Glennerster
Features: Video lectures, lecture notes, assignments
Best for: Leaders of social programs who want to learn methods of evaluation
This hands-on year-long design course challenges students to research, develop and deploy mobile technologies that will address real-world needs in the developing world.
Instructors: Mr. Jhonatan Rotberg, Dr. Luis Sarmenta, Dr. Gari Clifford, and Dr. Rich Fletcher
Features: Project videos, student-led discussions
Best for: Visionaries who would like to change the world using mobile and internet technologies
An outgrowth of notes written for 6.033 Computer Science Engineering over a period of more than 40 years, this two-part textbook provides an introduction to the principles and abstractions used in the design of computer systems.
Instructors: Jerome H. Saltzer and M. Frans Kaashoek
Features: Complete textbook
Best for: Anyone looking for an introduction to computer system design
By examining case studies from unusually successful firms, this course explores ways in which long-term advantage is built from first-mover advantage, increasing returns, and unique organizational competencies. Be sure to check out the MIT Sloan Teaching Innovation Resources linked from the Readings section.
Instructors: Prof. Rebecca Henderson
Features: Lecture notes, assignments
Best for: MBA candidates and experienced professionals who want to learn from examples of successful management
Students in this course use scale models to consider ways of inhabiting space. Required of Architecture majors, the studio format of this course provides an introduction to the field of Architecture for student with no previous design experience.
Instructors: Prof. William Hubbard
Features: Student projects
Best for: Architecture students and others interested in an introduction to the field
For five weeks during the summer, students come to MIT to participate in this introduction to investigating astronomical systems. Look for the "Teachers' Tricks and Tips" in each section that provide details on incorporating these activities in other classrooms.
Instructors: Mark Hartman, Peter Ashton, Shakib Ahmed, Simba Kol, and Dr. Irene Porro
Features: Videos, student projects, image galleries
Best for: Students in grades 9 – 11 who want to undertake astronomy projects; Instructors who want to introduce their students to the basics of astronomical investigations
This course provides an introduction to modern standard Chinese (Mandarin) for the absolute beginner by developing basic conversational ability, reading and writing skills, and an understanding of the language learning process all aimed at allowing students to continue learning on their own.
Instructors: Dr. Julian K. Wheatley
Features: Audio samples, flashCube language-study software
Best for: Anyone who would like to learn modern standard Chinese
This "manual" is designed to prepare students for a chemistry laboratory class, and includes tips and information for making the most out of your labs. A wide variety of topics are covered, include methods for taking proper measurements, using a rotary evaporator, and maintaining a balance.
Instructors: Dr. Kimberly Berkowski, Dr. Sarah Tabacco, Aayesha Siddiqui, and Eileen Huang
Features: Video lectures
Best for: Students preparing for or enrolled in a chemistry laboratory class