Day 37

Learning Targets:

• Students will be able to describe the structure and function of the 5 basic senses and how these processes influence human behavior.
• Students will be able to understand the impact of perception on the influence of behavior.

Opener:  Which of the following professions do you believe are most reliant on their senses and perceptions in order to be successful in their careers?  Explain.

ER Doctor
Heavy Equipment Operator
Car Salesman
Software Engineer
Interior Decorator

Activity #1:  Sensation and perception work seamlessly together to allow us to detect both the presence of, and changes in, the stimuli around us.  Read each of the scenarios below and answer the corresponding questions.  Be sure to include as many of the key terms and concepts listed below in your responses.

Scenario #1 - Protection

You have decided to pursue a career in public service and have ended up in the Secret Service as part of the President's security detail.  While giving a speech during a campaign rally for the upcoming election, you have been notified of a potential threat from within the crowd.  

1.  Which senses are going to be the most critical in keeping the president safe?

2.  What have we learned about the sensation and perception that will allow you to more effectively do your job?

3.  Which of the following sensation/perception concepts or effects would be important for someone in your position to teach new agents that are joining your team?

Activity #2: 

Scenario #2 - Restaurant Critic

Given your extraordinarily sharp senses, coupled with a flare for descriptive writing, you have been hired by Zagats to review local restaurants in Kansas City.  You've eagerly set out on your adventure  and really want to do a good job on your first assignment.  You've decided to start your new career by reviewing your favorite restaurant in KC.  Suddenly you remember just how important it is to be aware of your senses and perceptions when you enter the restaurant.  

1.  What senses, aside from taste, do you need to pay attention to upon entering the restaurant?  How does this influence what you will taste?

2.   What advice would you give your readers about how to make their dining experience more enjoyable?

3.  What advice would you give the owner/manager of the restaurant to make in order to influence their customers sense of taste?

• Sensory interaction 
• McGurk effect 
• Selective attention 
• Cocktail party phenomenon 
• Sensory adaptation 
• Moon illusion 
• Habituation
• Proprioception
• Vestibular System
• Gate Control Theory
• Difference Threshold
• Signal Detection Theory
• Blind Spot
• Absolute Threshold

Close:  Live Q&A Here: 

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1CM74hfGqmTM7TYcfCXOZMfKe7W83BeFwJk3oYxCAe-8/edit?usp=sharing