Major Concepts and Behavioral Objectives

CONCEPT I:Stimuli, Sensation, and Perceptions

To sense the stimulus energy in our environment, we use special organs called receptors that change physical stimuli such as light into sensations such as vision. We then interpret these sensations in the process called perception.

1. Describe the processes of sensation and perception.

2. Define and discuss the concepts of sensory threshold, just noticeable difference, and adaptation; and, using this information, apply Weber's law to examples.

CONCEPT II:The Human Senses

Light waves are translated into neural impulses by specialized cells called rods and cones that are present in the retina of the eye. Sound waves are coded by the cochlea of the inner ear. Receptors in the skin sense touch, pressure, warmth, cold, and pain. Smell is detected by the olfactory membranes in the nasal passage, and taste by the taste buds on the tongue.

3. Describe the process of seeing by describing how various parts of the eye convert light to vision.

4. Explain how we sense color.

5. Describe the process of hearing by discussing how various parts of the ear convert sound to hearing.

6. List the skin senses and describe how these receptors change physical energy to sensation.

7. Compare and contrast smell and taste, and use the two senses to illustrate the concept of sensory integration.

CONCEPT III: Perceiving a Complex World

Perception, or the interpretation of sensation by the brain, involves the organism's past experience and present condition, as well as an immediate sensation. Perception can thus differ from sensation; it can create an illusion.

 8. Define and distinguish between a direct perspective and an indirect, or constructionist, view of perception.

9. Define and discuss the principles that guide our perception of the world around us.

10. Explain how illusions work.

11. Discuss the evidence used to support the empiricist and nativist viewpoints, and describe how today's psychologists interpret these data.

12. Describe how one's expectations can influence one's perceptions.

13. Discuss how computers are being used to help understand perceptual processes.

14. Define subliminal perception, and discuss its effects on behavior.