Do-It-Yourself IAP—Wherever You Art

During the dark days of winter, the MIT mind seeks fresh stimulation. That might mean ruminating over new discoveries, learning for the joy of learning, or listening to a great story. At MIT, that’s called the Independent Activities Period (IAP). The MIT Alumni Association created this Do-It-Yourself IAP so you can participate in the creative spirit—no matter where you are.

• Hot Ideas for a Cold Month: Browse 2010 research highlights

Optogenetics + LuminAR + Emotional understanding tool + Perching airplane + Targeting cancer + 6% solution + Victorian marketing + Billion prices project + Humanoid spacebots + Protein-folding contest

• MIT150 Festivities: Dive into the sesquicentennial

Countdown to January 7 + Toast to IAP + Day of Service + Convocation celebrations worldwide + the Corridor + Global Challenge + MIT Press books + Social media +  Next Century Convocation

• Showtime! Watch videos of great talks and reflective moments

Sohu.com founder + Sadoway’s #1 OCW site + Remembering Doc Draper + Peptic doses of the dismal science + Alan Alda on science communication + El Sistema + Best student elevator pitches

• Just for Fun: Enjoy a taste of MIT-style culture

Nerds vs. geeks + Purse that stops your spending + Lady Gaga’s MIT Polaroid moment + Secret handshake + OK Go viral video + Singing your way into MIT + Augmented reality + Janney’s new public music