What is a city? Why do cities show up in some places and not others? Why can you find the same trees in American, Israeli, and Chilean cities? In this class we will try to answer these questions and examine the ecology of cities - from the placement of buildings to the creation of parks to the flows of people, energy, and ideas.

In this class we will explore the nature of cities, from dogs to squirrels to people to dandelions. We will go outside and try to understand what we're seeing and why it's there. Very recently, scientists discovered a new species of centipede living in Central Park. Who knows what we'll find!

Cities are hotter than their surrounding areas. In this course we will figure out why, uncover consequences, and try to solve the problem.

This course will examine a case study concerning snails and decomposition dynamics within an intertidal salt marsh. We will use this case to better understand ecologically complex systems.

Cities are hotter than their surrounding areas. In this course we will figure out why, uncover consequences, and try to solve the problem.

Take a walk on the wild side and learn about the ecology of MIT's campus. Subjects will range from plant identification to urban environmental management to eco-philosophy.

Ever wonder what those birds outside were trying to say? Explore the language of birds and its use in music throughout history.

Who wants to build a nest when your egg can be raised by some other bird? Sounds pretty ingenious to me... Explore the mechanics of this special avian relationship.

Take a walk on the wild side and learn about the ecology of MIT's campus. Subjects will range from plant identification to urban environmental management to eco-philosophy.

Ever wonder if birds were doing more than just trying to wake you up in the morning? Learn how to recognize and make numerous bird sounds. We will also look into the role of nature in the development of language and music. You will leave with the impressive ability to make bird calls. Don't tell your mom.