Time Schedule:
Ellen Covey
PSYCH 333
Seattle Campus
An overview of each of the major senses with emphasis on the structure and function of sensory systems and the relation of the underlying biology to perceptual processes and behavior. Prerequisite: 2.0 in PSYCH 202; 2.0 in PSYCH 209.
Class description
The objective of this survey course is to provide students with a basic understanding of how animals and humans obtain and process information about their environment. This topic will be explored from several different viewpoints including the structure and function of sensory systems, theories of information processing, the relation of behavior and human performance to stimulus attributes and underlying neural mechanisms, and the ways in which knowledge about sensory processing can be applied in everyday life.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lectures; Quiz Sections include demonstrations, oral presentations by students, and other activities related to class material. Lectures will cover basic information pertaining to sensory systems. Quiz sections will provide a forum for in-class written assignments, discussion and answering of specific questions, hands-on demonstrations to illustrate selected concepts, and a venue for student presentations.
Recommended preparation
Psych 101 or equivalent; basic math, writing, and library/internet research skills.
Class assignments and grading
6 Essay-type homework assignments; 6 Quiz Section write-ups; 1 short term paper; 1 5-minute oral presentation; 2 Essay-type in-class exams; 1 cumulative multiple choice final
Grades will be based on the above listed assignments. The lowest homework score and the lowest Quiz Section wirte-up score will be dropped.
