Fall 2009

6.021J Cellular Biophysics
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(Same subject as 2.791J, 20.370J...not 7 (Biology) or 8 (physics), just sayin...)
Wikipedia is wrong! Or at least, incomplete...
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Integrated overview of the biophysics of cells from prokaryotes to neurons, with a focus on mass transport and electrical signal generation across cell membrane. First half of course focuses on mass transport through membranes: diffusion, osmosis, chemically mediated, and active transport. Second half focuses on electrical properties of cells: ion transport to action potentials in electrically excitable cells. Electrical properties interpreted via kinetic and molecular properties of single voltage-gated ion channels. Laboratory and computer exercises illustrate the concepts. Provides instruction in written and oral communication. Students taking graduate version complete different assignments. Preference to juniors and seniors. 4 Engineering Design Points.
D. M. Freeman, J. Han, J. Voldman

6.152J Micro/Nano Processing Technology
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(Same subject as 3.155J)
Go! Go! Clean Room! My Thursdays will always be happy...nothing will bring me down after 4 hours in a clean room.
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Introduces the theory and technology of micro/nano fabrication. Lectures and laboratory sessions on basic processing techniques such as vacuum processes, lithography, diffusion, oxidation, and pattern transfer. Students fabricate MOS capacitors, nanomechanical cantilevers, and microfluidic mixers. Emphasis on the interrelationships between material properties and processing, device structure, and the electrical, mechanical, optical, chemical or biological behavior of devices. Provides background for thesis work in micro/nano fabrication. Students engage in extensive written and oral communication exercises. 6 Engineering Design Points.
M. A. Schmidt, L. A. Kolodziejski, R. C. O'Handley, C. A. Ross

21W.772 Digital Poetry
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Exactly what it sounds like...for very broad definitions of both digital & poetry
You can even watch what I make in my MIT Public Directory.
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Digital forms of poetry, including hypertext poems, Flash-animated poems, poems within short digital videos and interactive forms of poetry and games. Readings in early hypertext theory and creative writing. Experiment with creating poetry for wireless access on hand held devices. Test the assumptions of these early theorists through practice of creating digital poetry. Students discuss online examples of each of these kinds of digital poetry and then compose their own work, to present in class for critique and revision. The final project allows students to build upon their experience throughout the term with these forms.
E. Barrett

CMS.608 Game Design
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key here is _Non-Digital_ Game Design...I get to play and create board games/card games/etc. So awesome!
I'm thinking we need to develop a 'reverse monopoly' game...you have a lot of rental properties that you need to get rid of. Inspiration comes from life?
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An historical examination and analysis of the evolution and development of games and game mechanics. Topics include a large breadth of genres and types of games, including sports, game shows, games of chance, schoolyard games, board games, roleplaying games, and digital games. Students submit essays documenting research and analysis of a variety of traditional and eclectic games. Project teams required to design, develop, and thoroughly test their original games. Enrollment limited to 20.
P. Tan