Foundations of Cognitive Science: Mind, Brain, and Behavior

Have you ever wondered how your brain turns light into sight, or how you can remember details from years ago? Cognitive science offers a fascinating lens into the inner workings of the human mind. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts and interdisciplinary approaches that explain how we perceive, learn, remember, reason, and make decisions, equipping you with a foundational understanding of human cognition. What you'll learn: Understand the core theories and historical development of cognitive science. Explore the mechanisms of visual perception, attention, and language processing. Analyze how memory systems function and influence learning. Grasp the principles of reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making, including common cognitive biases. Examine the neural and computational perspectives that underpin cognitive processes. Apply foundational concepts to understand cognitive development and human-AI interaction. The course begins with an introduction to the history and foundational theories of cognitive science, then systematically explores key cognitive functions like perception, memory, and language, before delving into higher-level processes such as reasoning and decision-making. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of cognitive science, psychology, or neuroscience, who are curious about how the human mind works. Begin your journey into the fascinating world of human cognition and unlock a deeper understanding of the mind.