EDUCATION
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
Our teaching approach centers on generating an enthusiastic, research-based learning environment that provides ample opportunities to think critically, ask relevant questions, make current thinking visible in oral and in written form, as well as engage in collaborative work and mutual learning. One of the main goals of my teaching approach is to take advantage of a student’s fascination for science and engineering and to develop this interest into a profound and flexible knowledge base that will stimulate innovation and interactions across disciplinary boundaries. We promote hands-on research to inspire true understanding and engagement.
OUTREACH
One of the key contributions to the MIT community and beyond is our work on education for displaced and refugees. Based on Prof. Masic life circumstances he is very committed and dedicated to the cause of displaced and refugees’ education. He led the SOLVE Learn pillar challenge on how to improve education for children in refugee camps. He believes that one of our grand challenges today goes beyond securing shelter, food, and safety, to improving the infrastructure for and access to education. Education is not only a basic human right; it is an underestimated component of restoring long-term stability and prosperity in regions of conflict.
In May 2017 Prof. Masic launched ReACT, the MIT Refugee Action Hub. MIT ReACT is a community-driven hub that aims to develop efficient tools and solutions with a broad public outreach for education in non-conventional settings. ReACT offers a global educational infrastructure for forcibly displaced populations and refugees. The vision is to provide the opportunity for migrants with different backgrounds, preparation, and aspirations to receive a life-changing education.
In November 2017 ReACT launched MIT ReACT certificate program in Computer and Data Science. The program aims to bring MIT caliber education to refugees and other displaced populations where they live. Beyond lectures and problem sets, the students will tackle hands-on engineering and operations challenges, explore new innovation models, and dive into developing leadership skills. The program is also designed so that MIT ReACT students have the opportunity to pursue similarly challenging and rewarding careers.
LECTURES
Project-oriented subject focused on the principles and practice of engineering design. Emphasis on construction and deployment of designs, plus performance testing used to determine if designs behave as expected. Includes a major team project involving use and application of sensors, as well as environmentally-friendly, and energy-effective or energy-producing designs. Develops practical, teamwork and communication skills. Satisfies 6 units of Institute Laboratory credit. Enrollment limited; preference to Course 1 majors and minors.
SPRING | 1.102 UG
Civil and Environmental Engineering Design II
Examines the ways in which people in ancient and contemporary societies have selected, evaluated, and used materials of nature, transforming them into objects of material culture. Explores ideological and aesthetic criteria often influential in materials development. Laboratory/workshop sessions provide hands-on experience with materials discussed in class.
SPRING | 3.094 UG
Materials in Human Experience
Unit 1 CONCRETE: Roman concrete and the Roman architectural revolution
The purpose of the program is to provide MIT undergraduates an interdisciplinary, hands on introduction to the use of materials in arts, archeology and architecture. The emphasis is on ancient technologies as a source of inspiration for innovation and environmental sustainability. The focus is on the relevance for current research and usage of antique artefacts and materials. The program includes both a rigorous academic approach and an extensive experiential research component (at leading restoration Italian companies and institutions).
SUMMER | ONE-MA3
Materials in Art, Archeology and Architecture
Interdisciplinary, applied introduction to ancient materials and technology. Students explore materials sustainability and durability from multiple perspectives, using ancient societies, architecture and building materials as time-proven examples of innovation in construction. Involves discussions of peer-reviewed literature and cultural heritage, project formulation, data collection, and data analysis. Culminates in presentation of research project(s), and write-ups of the research in manuscript form.
FALL | 1.057 UG
Heritage Science and Technology