Experimental Study Group

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The Experimental Study Group (ESG) describes itself as an "alternative academic program" at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It was created in 1969 by Professor George Valley to explore alternative teaching and learning methods in a small group setting at MIT. The program offers a good alternative to large lectures for general institute requirements.

Currently, the program consists of about 50 first-year students, 30 upperclass students, 10 hired staff instructors and administrators, and many other friends of the community. The students are often eccentric and together form a very diverse (and perhaps unusual) group. Classes, which are often taught by undergraduates, usually consist of 4-6 students. ESG also offers an independent study option.