NOTE: The Investigations below are NOT linked in this sample site. They provide a brief overview of Investigation scientific content.
Human Cognition: Investigation 1 - The Human Brain
In Investigation One, you will use a sheep brain in the lab, but human models will also be available for comparison. The focus of the lab will be the four lobes of the brain (frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital) and their functions.
In the second part of the lab, you will be directed to find various structures on the brain specimens and then draw them on swim caps. This lab should give you a good understanding of the overall anatomy of the brain.
Human Cognition: Investigation 2 - Information Processing Model One (Input and Short Term/Working Memory)
In Investigation Two, you will begin the first of two Investigations focusing on the Information Processing Model of learning and memory. During this Investigation, you will:
- Examine human sensory perception
- Learn about the sensory register, which filters the amount of data processed reaching the brain
- Learn about and demonstrate short term memory and working memory.
Human Cognition: Investigation 3 - Information Processing Model Two (Learning and Memory)
In Investigation Three, you will continue to study and demonstrate the Information Processing Model of human cognition and learning. During this Investigation, you will:
- Discover how permanent, long term memories are made.
- Demonstrate how critical thinking and decision-making takes as well as factors that may inhibit this process.
- Learn to use and control your own information processing methods to help study and improve your cognitive abilities.
Human Cognition: Investigation 4 - Executive Functions and Artificial Intelligence
In Investigation Four, you will learn about the slowest developing component of human cognition, executive functions. During this Investigation, you will:
- Learn that the brain’s frontal lobe involves higher-level thinking, planning, and problem-solving.
- Learn that the frontal lobe and executive functions are not fully developed until late adolescence/early adulthood.
- Begin to consider the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and intelligently discuss the opportunities and challenges this exciting new technology presents.
