Focuses on innovative propositions for shaping the cities of tomorrow, responding to emerging trends, technologies, and ecological imperatives. Students take part in "what-if?" scenarios to tackle real-world challenges. Through collaborative, project-based learning in small teams, students are mentored by researchers from the City Science group. Projects focus on the application of these ideas to case study cities and may include travel. Invited guests from academia and industry participate. Repeatable for credit with permission of instructor.

4.581 Proseminar in Computation (G) / 4.582 Research Seminar in Computation (G)

Introduction to traditions of research in design and computation scholarship.

4.582 Research Seminar in Computation

In-depth presentations of current research in design and computation.

Class website

Develop independent projects in the study of digital media as it relates to architectural design. Students propose a project topic such as digital design tool, modeling and visualization, motion graphics, interactive design, design knowledge representation and media interface.

Throughout the semester, we will explore how cities and their systems can operate as dynamic, adaptive environments - engaging with topics such as mobility, housing, behavioral simulation, dynamic zoning, community engagement, energy, and emerging technologies. Each week, a guest speaker will introduce a key theme, and class time will blend discussion, interactive activities, and hands-on exploration.

Students will develop a weekly two-page personal vision reflecting on how the system explored that week could enable more livable, equitable, and entrepreneurial urban communities. These weekly reflections will build toward a final personal manifesto, articulating a coherent vision for the future of cities.

Please review the course website to familiarize yourself with the course structure and expectations. Additional details and logistics will be shared during the first session.  The syllabus can be found here

Group discussions and presentation of ongoing graduate student research in the Computation program.

Selection of thesis topic, definition of method of approach, and preparation of thesis proposal in computation. Independent study supplemented by individual conference with faculty.

Students select thesis topic, define method of approach, and prepare thesis proposal for SMArchS Computation degree. Faculty supervision on a group basis. Intended for SMArchS Computation program students, prior to registration for 4.ThG.

Explores the varied nature, history and practice of computation in design through lectures, readings, small projects, discussions, and guest visits by Computation group faculty and others. Topics may vary from year to year. Aims to help students develop a critical awareness of different approaches to and assumptions about computation in design beyond the specifics of techniques and tools, and to open avenues for further research.