The MIT Learning Engineering and Practice Group (LEAP Group), led by Dr. John Liu, applies design and systems principles to solving challenges in learning and develops learning experiences to better meet the increasing demand for STEM skills in tomorrow’s workforce. Our research-to-practice approach includes the focus areas of mixed reality, simulations and haptics, educational technology, MOOC and blended learning, and curriculum development to enhance and scale engineering education and training. We are a group in MIT’s Mechanical Engineering Department.

Recent News

Jan 17, 2023

Welcome Dr. Zhen Zhao to the group!

Jan 1, 2023

Connected World interviewed Dr. Liu for its article on "Metaverse and the New Manufacturing Workforce."

Dec 7, 2022

Dr. Liu spoke at Defense Manufacturing Conference 2022 (DMC22) on the plenary "Education and Workforce Development Panel."

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Get Involved

2023 Jan update: I am looking for two postdocs in STEM education and workforce (one in manufacturing and one in mechanics), two instructional designers and/or learning engineers, and a program manager. Contact me (Dr. John Liu) with a statement of interest and your CV!

We’re looking for students, postdocs, and instructors who care deeply about learning and are passionate about technology! We have a wide variety of opportunities in our current projects centered on learning enabled by AR/VR, haptics and visualization, learner crowdsourcing, educational tools in MOOC platforms, and data analytics.