12.000

Solving Complex Problems

Subject 12.000 provides an opportunity for entering freshmen to gain first-hand experience with working as part of a team to develop effective approaches to complex problems in science and engineering that do not have straightforward solutions. Each year's class explores a different problem in detail through the study of complimentary case histories and the development of creative solution strategies. It includes training in website development, effective written and oral communication, and team building. Receiving major financial support from the Alex and Britt d'Arbeloff Fund for Excellence in MIT Education, 12.000 is designed to enhance the freshman experience by helping students develop contexts for other subjects in the sciences and humanities, and by helping them to establish learning communities that include upperclassmen, faculty, MIT alumni, and professionals in science and engineering fields.