|
|
|
|
 |
Shortcuts:News |
|
|
|
Frequently Asked Question and Frequently Given AnswersTable of Contents
What subjects are offered in ESG?We offer all of the first year subjects (and their variations) in math, physics, chemistry, and biology. We also offer subjects in political science, literature, philosophy, and writing, as well as several advisor and undergraduate seminars. Advanced subjects such as Differential Equations are also available. If you are interested in a subject which is not currently offered in ESG, you may be able to work out an independent program of study with one of our staff members. How are my ESG classes taught?Math and science subjects are taught by MIT faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate teaching assistants through small, interactive classes and self-paced study. Humanities subjects and undergraduate seminars are taught through regular discussion-based or project-oriented classes, with plenty of opportunity for student input. Instructors and students meet at the beginning of the term to set up the time, pacing, and course materials that best fit the students. For example, some students decide to study Calculus in small study groups and finishing the majority of the material by mid-November (giving them the option of beginning subsequent courses early). Can I take subjects outside of ESG?In general, you are encouraged to take all of your core subjects in ESG. However, you can take one or two subjects in the regular curriculum. Many of you will also elect to take a Freshman Advising Seminar outside of ESG. If you wish to take a 12-unit subject in the regular curriculum that is not offered in ESG (such as a foreign language), you are able to do so. Do my ESG subjects cover the same material as subjects in the regular curriculum?Yes. In addition, you are welcome to explore topics of particular interest to you within each subject. If you have already covered part of the curriculum in high school, you do not have to go over it again if you can demonstrate proficiency in that area. This enables students to move more quickly through material with which they are already familiar and spend extra time on topics they find interesting or particularly difficult. What does a typical ESG schedule look like?Core science and math classes consist of five hours of instruction a week, including direct contact with the instructor, problem-solving sessions run by upperclassmen, and peer-led study groups. These hours are scheduled throughout the week at times that are mutually convenient for the students and instructors. Humanities subjects and undergraduate seminars are held one to three times a week. Because of the small size of our classes, you will have flexibility about when to meet during the term. What is expected out of a student in ESG?In general, ESG works best for highly motivated students who are interested in taking charge of their education. We provide students with a variety of methods of mastering the material, including regularly scheduled study sessions (with tutors available), individual meetings with instructors, and ample opportunity in class to ask questions. We also encourage students to delve further into areas of particular interest to them, and to consider new ways of learning the material. Will I have to forfeit any AP credit I receive if I join ESG?No - one advantage of being in ESG is that you can begin the next subject in sequence whenever you are ready. For example, if you have AP credit for Physics I, you can start Physics II right away. If you don't yet have credit for Physics I but know a lot of it already, you can finish it up and start Physics II before the spring term begins. Will I feel isolated from the rest of MIT if I join ESG?Since you will be living with students from the regular curriculum and may be taking a class in the mainstream, you are unlikely to feel cut off from MIT. Our students usually feel that they have the best of both worlds: a relaxed, informal community in which they can really get to know instructors and fellow students and receive personal attention, and still have access to all of the resources at MIT. Is there life beyond academics at ESG?Absolutely. ESG is open 24 hours a day, and students come to ESG not only to study, but also to lounge in our hammock, cook a meal, chat with friends, or use the computer cluster. Past students have consistently remarked on the importance of the community aspects of ESG in helping them feel at home at MIT and perform to the best of their abilities. The community at ESG is composed of current students, past students who stay on to teach or advise freshmen, and staff who are interested in a more personalized approach to undergraduate education at MIT. Community activities include weekly luncheons, semi-weekly evening study sessions with homemade apple pie and cookies, outing to local museums, theatres, and music events, and weekend trips. Our computer cluster and large and comfortable commons room also provide a space to get to know people at ESG. I am interested in ESG; what do I do?The best way to find out whether ESG is the right place for you is to talk with former students at our open houses, orientation groups, seminars, and luncheons. |
|
home | about | academics | community | alumni | calendar | contact |
|
 |
Copyright © Massachusetts Institute of Technology Comments and questions to esg-contact@mit.edu |