We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Dale Purves
Learners will be introduced to the problems that vision faces, using perception as a guide. The course will consider how what we see is generated by the visual system, what the central problem for vision is, and what visual perception indicates about how the brain works. The evidence will be drawn from neuroscience, psychology, the history of vision science and what philosophy has contributed. Although the discussions will be informed by visual system anatomy and physiology, the focus is on perception. We see the physical world in a strange way, and goal is to understand why.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/ll59kr/visual
What's inside
Syllabus
Background
Seeing Lightness, Darkness and Color
Seeing Space
Read more
Syllabus
Background
Seeing Lightness, Darkness and Color
Seeing Space
Read more
Seeing Motion
Summing Up
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Excellent course for students and professionals in neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and computer science
Helps students understand the complex mechanisms of human vision
Provides a balanced perspective on vision science and its history
Taught by renowned researchers in the field
Requires prior knowledge in natural science domains
Save this course
Save Visual Perception and the Brain to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Introduction to visual perception
Learners say that this introductory course is a super straightforward and insightful option for anyone getting started in visual perception. Students praise the explanations and instructor but note that it may not be an appropriate fit for all.
The instructor provided excellent explanations.
"An excellent course, topic explained well."
The course is insightful and thought provoking.
"A very insightful course."
The course is an introductory course and is straightforward.
"Super straightforward."
"A perfect choice as an introductory course."
The course does not go into enough depth for everyone.
"I didn't continue the course because it wasn't what I thought it was going to be about."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Visual Perception and the Brain with these
activities:
Review color theory
Show steps
Review the principles of color theory to enhance your understanding of how color is perceived and used in vision.
Browse courses on
Color Theory
Show steps
-
Read articles and watch videos about color theory
-
Create a color wheel and experiment with different color combinations
Review basic mathematics skills
Show steps
Ensure a strong foundation in mathematics, which is necessary for understanding the course material.
Browse courses on
Mathematics
Show steps
-
Revise basic arithmetic operations.
-
Practice solving equations.
-
Review geometry.
Read 'The Art of Seeing'
Show steps
Gain insights into the historical development of visual perception ideas.
Show steps
-
Acquire a copy of 'The Art of Seeing'.
-
Read the book and take notes.
-
Discuss the book with others or write a review.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Read 'Principles of Neural Science'
Show steps
Provide a solid understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the visual system.
View
Principles of Neural Science, Fifth Edition...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Acquire a copy of 'Principles of Neural Science'.
-
Read the relevant chapters on the neuroscience of vision.
-
Take notes or highlight key concepts.
-
Quiz yourself or participate in discussions on the material.
Solve visual perception puzzles
Show steps
Improve understanding of how the brain processes visual information.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
-
Find online or printed visual perception puzzles.
-
Attempt to solve the puzzles without assistance.
-
Review the solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Organize and review course materials
Show steps
Improve retention and understanding of the material.
Show steps
-
Gather notes, assignments, and other course materials.
-
Organize the materials into a logical structure.
-
Review the materials regularly.
Create a visual illusion
Show steps
Develop creative thinking skills that can also help improve understanding of how visual illusions work.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
-
Brainstorm ideas for a visual illusion.
-
Design the illusion using drawing, photo editing, or programming tools.
-
Test the illusion with others and observe its effects.
Participate in visual perception challenges or competitions
Show steps
Test and improve visual perception skills in a competitive environment.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
-
Find visual perception challenges or competitions online or in person.
-
Prepare by practicing visual puzzles and exercises.
-
Participate in the challenges and track your progress.
Design and conduct a simple experiment on visual perception
Show steps
Provide hands-on experience with scientific research methods while deepening understanding of visual perception.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
-
Formulate a hypothesis about visual perception.
-
Design an experiment to test the hypothesis.
-
Conduct the experiment and record data.
-
Analyze the data and draw conclusions.
Review color theory
Show steps
Review the principles of color theory to enhance your understanding of how color is perceived and used in vision.
Browse courses on
Color Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read articles and watch videos about color theory
- Create a color wheel and experiment with different color combinations
Review basic mathematics skills
Show steps
Ensure a strong foundation in mathematics, which is necessary for understanding the course material.
Browse courses on
Mathematics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Revise basic arithmetic operations.
- Practice solving equations.
- Review geometry.
Read 'The Art of Seeing'
Show steps
Gain insights into the historical development of visual perception ideas.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Acquire a copy of 'The Art of Seeing'.
- Read the book and take notes.
- Discuss the book with others or write a review.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Read 'Principles of Neural Science'
Show steps
Provide a solid understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the visual system.
View
Principles of Neural Science, Fifth Edition...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Acquire a copy of 'Principles of Neural Science'.
- Read the relevant chapters on the neuroscience of vision.
- Take notes or highlight key concepts.
- Quiz yourself or participate in discussions on the material.
Solve visual perception puzzles
Show steps
Improve understanding of how the brain processes visual information.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online or printed visual perception puzzles.
- Attempt to solve the puzzles without assistance.
- Review the solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Organize and review course materials
Show steps
Improve retention and understanding of the material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather notes, assignments, and other course materials.
- Organize the materials into a logical structure.
- Review the materials regularly.
Create a visual illusion
Show steps
Develop creative thinking skills that can also help improve understanding of how visual illusions work.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm ideas for a visual illusion.
- Design the illusion using drawing, photo editing, or programming tools.
- Test the illusion with others and observe its effects.
Participate in visual perception challenges or competitions
Show steps
Test and improve visual perception skills in a competitive environment.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find visual perception challenges or competitions online or in person.
- Prepare by practicing visual puzzles and exercises.
- Participate in the challenges and track your progress.
Design and conduct a simple experiment on visual perception
Show steps
Provide hands-on experience with scientific research methods while deepening understanding of visual perception.
Browse courses on
Visual Perception
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Formulate a hypothesis about visual perception.
- Design an experiment to test the hypothesis.
- Conduct the experiment and record data.
- Analyze the data and draw conclusions.
Career center
Learners who complete Visual Perception and the Brain will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Art Director
Art Director
Art Directors are responsible for the visual style and concepts of magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and websites. They oversee the work of other artists and designers to ensure that the final product meets the client's specifications. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide insight into the psychology of visual perception, which can be useful for Art Directors to create visually appealing and effective designs.
Graphic designer
Graphic designer
Graphic Designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for applications such as brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. Visual Perception and the Brain can help build a foundation for the principles of visual perception and how the brain interprets visual information, both of which are vital to success for Graphic Designers.
Photographer
Photographer
Photographers take pictures for a variety of purposes, including commercial, artistic, and personal use. They use cameras to capture images of people, places, and things, and may also edit and process the images to create a desired effect. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Photographers with a deeper understanding of how the eye and brain work together to process visual information, which can help them to take more effective and visually appealing photographs.
Architect
Architect
Architects design and oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of structural engineering, building materials, and visual design. Visual Perception and the Brain can help Architects to understand how people perceive and interact with buildings, which can help them to design buildings that are both functional and visually appealing.
UX Designer
UX Designer
UX Designers are responsible for the user experience of websites and applications. They must have a strong understanding of human-computer interaction and visual perception. Visual Perception and the Brain can help UX Designers to understand how people interact with digital products, which can help them to design products that are both easy to use and visually appealing.
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designers develop the concepts and designs for a wide range of products, including furniture, appliances, and vehicles. They must have a strong understanding of human factors, ergonomics, and visual perception. Visual Perception and the Brain can help Industrial Designers to understand how people interact with products, which can help them to design products that are both functional and user-friendly.
Cognitive Psychologist
Cognitive Psychologist
Cognitive Psychologists study the mental processes involved in perception, thinking, memory, and language. They use a variety of methods to investigate how the brain processes information and how people learn and remember. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Cognitive Psychologists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information.
Neuroscientist
Neuroscientist
Neuroscientists study the structure and function of the nervous system. They use a variety of techniques to investigate how the brain processes information, how it learns and remembers, and how it controls movement and behavior. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Neuroscientists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information.
Optometrist
Optometrist
Optometrists are eye doctors who examine, diagnose, and treat disorders of the visual system. They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses and may also perform surgery to correct vision problems. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Optometrists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to diagnose and treat vision problems.
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. They perform surgery to correct vision problems and may also prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Ophthalmologists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to diagnose and treat eye disorders.
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Teachers work with students who have disabilities. They provide specialized instruction and support to help students with disabilities learn and reach their full potential. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Special Education Teachers with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to help students with visual impairments to learn and reach their full potential.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people to regain or improve their physical function after an injury or illness. They work with people of all ages who have a variety of disabilities, including physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Physical Therapists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to help people with visual impairments to regain or improve their physical function.
Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation Counselors help people with disabilities to live as independently as possible. They provide counseling, support, and guidance to people with disabilities and their families. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Rehabilitation Counselors with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to help people with visual impairments to live as independently as possible.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people to regain or improve their ability to perform everyday activities. They work with people of all ages who have a variety of disabilities, including physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Occupational Therapists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to help people with visual impairments to regain or improve their ability to perform everyday activities.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists assess and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders. They work with people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Visual Perception and the Brain can provide Speech-Language Pathologists with a deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms of visual perception, which can help them to better understand how the brain processes visual information and how to assess and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ll59kr/visual
Reading list
We've selected 28 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Visual Perception and the Brain.
This comprehensive handbook covers a wide range of topics in vision science, from basic neurophysiology to higher-level cognitive processes. It provides an in-depth exploration of the latest research and valuable reference tool for researchers and students alike.
This comprehensive textbook provides a foundation in neuroscience, covering the structure and function of the nervous system, as well as the neural basis of perception, behavior, and cognition.
Explores the cognitive neuroscience of visual perception, covering topics such as visual attention, object recognition, and scene perception. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the neural mechanisms of vision.
This comprehensive handbook provides an in-depth overview of the field of visual perception, covering a wide range of topics from basic sensory processes to higher-level cognitive processes. It offers a valuable reference tool for researchers and students alike.
Save
Provides a broad overview of the psychology of visual perception, covering topics such as object recognition, depth perception, and motion perception. It would be a helpful resource for students who want to learn more about the psychological aspects of visual perception.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of perception, including chapters on visual perception, auditory perception, and somatosensory perception. It offers a solid foundation in the core principles of perception and is commonly used in academic settings.
This textbook covers a comprehensive range of topics in sensation and perception, including chapters on visual perception, auditory perception, and olfactory perception. It provides a solid overview of the field and is commonly used in academic settings.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of visual perception, covering topics such as light and color, space and motion, and object recognition. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the visual system.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the psychology of perception, covering the sensory systems, perceptual processes, and the neural mechanisms underlying perception.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the visual world, covering the structure and function of the visual system, as well as the neural mechanisms underlying visual perception.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophy of perception, covering the nature of perception, the relationship between perception and reality, and the role of perception in knowledge.
Provides a thorough examination of the psychology of perception, exploring the processes involved in how we perceive and interpret sensory information. While it may not focus specifically on visual perception, it offers a valuable foundation in the broader field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the philosophical issues surrounding perception, such as the nature of perception, the relationship between perception and reality, and the role of perception in knowledge.
Save
Provides an in-depth examination of the cognitive neuroscience of attention, exploring the neural mechanisms underlying attentional processes. While it may not focus specifically on visual perception, it offers valuable insights into the cognitive processes involved in perception.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of perceptual organization, exploring the principles and processes involved in how we perceive and organize sensory information into meaningful patterns. While it may not be specifically focused on visual perception, it offers valuable insights into the cognitive processes involved in perception.
Save
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between vision and action, exploring how visual information is used to guide and control motor behavior. While it may not focus specifically on visual perception, it offers valuable insights into the role of vision in perception and action.
Save
Provides an introduction to applied cognitive psychology, including chapters on visual cognition and perception. While it may not be as in-depth as some other books on this list, it offers a good overview of the field and its applications.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and research of visual perception, covering topics such as light and color, space and motion, and object recognition. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the visual system.
Save
Explores the relationship between vision and thinking, and how we use visual cues to make sense of the world around us. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the cognitive aspects of visual perception.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the psychology of perception, covering topics such as visual perception, auditory perception, and somatosensory perception. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the perceptual system.
Provides a cognitive approach to visual perception, covering topics such as attention, object recognition, and scene perception. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the cognitive neuroscience of vision.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the development of visual perception in infants. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the early stages of visual development.
Provides a comprehensive overview of clinical vision science, and it covers topics such as ocular anatomy, visual optics, and visual disorders. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the clinical aspects of visual perception.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the neurophysiology of vision, and it covers topics such as the structure and function of the eye, the visual pathways, and the visual cortex. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the neural mechanisms of visual perception.
Save
Provides a computational approach to the study of vision, and it covers topics such as image processing, object recognition, and motion perception. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the computational aspects of visual perception.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of vision science, and it covers topics such as the anatomy and physiology of the visual system, visual perception, and visual disorders. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the latest research in vision science.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of visual psychophysics, and it covers topics such as visual acuity, color vision, and motion perception. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the methods and techniques used in visual psychophysics.
Provides a clinical orientation to the study of visual perception, and it covers topics such as the assessment of visual perception, visual disorders, and the treatment of visual disorders. It would be a great resource for students who want to learn more about the clinical aspects of visual perception.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ll59kr/visual
Share
Similar courses
Here are nine courses similar to
Visual Perception and the Brain.
Visual Perception for Self-Driving Cars
OpenCourser.com/course/6b5fv1/visual
Visual Perception for Self-Driving Cars
Most relevant
How We See the World: Visual Function and Eye Health
OpenCourser.com/course/9sq98g/how
How We See the World: Visual Function and Eye Health
Most relevant
The Brain and Space
OpenCourser.com/course/pzvk5n/the
The Brain and Space
Cognitive Psychology
OpenCourser.com/course/68bhag/cognitive
Cognitive Psychology
Computer Vision: Executive Briefing
OpenCourser.com/course/cdcjks/computer
Computer Vision: Executive Briefing
Robotic Vision: Principles of Vision
OpenCourser.com/course/lkh8iw/robotic
Robotic Vision: Principles of Vision
Computer Vision in Microsoft Azure
OpenCourser.com/course/as4nbn/computer
Computer Vision in Microsoft Azure
Introduction to Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology
OpenCourser.com/course/bqyisg/introduction
Introduction to Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology
Robotics: Computational Motion Planning
OpenCourser.com/course/xjwg8x/robotics
Robotics: Computational Motion Planning
Via
Coursera
Institution
Duke University
Instructor
Dale Purves
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
Good to know
Excellent course for students and professionals in neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and computer science
Helps students understand the complex mechanisms of human vision
Provides a balanced perspective on vision science and its history
Taught by renowned researchers in the field
Requires prior knowledge in natural science domains
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser