MIT Subject Evaluations

8.613: Introduction to Plasma Physics I
Fall 1998 Summary

Lecturer: Professor Ambrogio Fasoli

Enrollment: 11
Number of students commenting: 9

8.613 introduces plasma phenomena relevant to energy generation by controlled thermonuclear fusion and to astrophysics.

Respondents felt that the subject content was appropriate. The text and lectures didn't parallel each other, offering different approaches to the material. One student felt that it was an excellent introductory course, while others stated that the material is complex and difficult. A few students asked for the time on each subject to be apportioned differently. One suggested a more theoretical emphasis, while another asked for a more broad range of topics. A respondent mentioned that the application presented in class were heavily weighted toward fusion. Overall opinions on 8.613 seemed to agree with the assessment of one class member: "A very worthwhile course to take."

Professor Fasoli's teaching style was praised by students. Nearly all felt he was an excellent, clear, and enthusiastic teacher who was always willing to help. One student complemented the frequent references to both the empirical evidence for the theories and real world applications of plasma physics. One student suggested that Fasoli needed to encourage questions from the class more, but most felt his lectures were already very well done.