This class studies how the senses work and how physical stimuli are transformed into signals in the nervous system. We examine how the brain uses those signals to make inferences about the world, and use illusions and demonstrations to gain insight into those inferences. The material emphasizes audition and vision, with some discussion of touch, taste, and smell. Hands-on experience with psychophysical methods is a central component of the course. Instructor: Prof. Josh McDermott.
Starting in 2019, this class has featured labs in which students design their very own illusions. You can find an archive of these illusions in the navigation bar above.
