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Sensory Science

The Senses

Rebecca Bleibaum

Humans are amazing sensors! This course will help you understand our sensing capabilities including taste, olfaction, tactile senses, vision, and audition. The course will explain at a high-level the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses and give you an appreciation of how senses are transmitted to, and experienced by, the brain. You’ll learn by experience to assess cases such as dysfunctions in olfaction or tactile temperature adaptation. Optional podcast conversations with experts in the field are included each week to provide additional insight on our senses and sensory research.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Taste: Gustation
In this module, we will begin our discussion on the senses starting with taste. We will also discuss primary tastes, anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of taste. We will then touch on transducer and neural effects including receptor types, stimulus-receptor transducer mechanisms, neural channels, neural codes, and cortical cell types and mechanisms. We will do an activity on taste adaptation and finish the module with an optional podcast conversation with Joel Sidel. Let's get started.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Helps learners gain a foundational understanding of five key sensory systems
Instructors are recognized for their expertise in their field
Features optional podcast conversations with experts in sensory research
Builds a foundation of sensory biology for beginning students
Requires no prerequisite courses
Provides hands-on activities to enhance learning

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Reviews summary

Deep dive into human senses

According to the course description and syllabus, learners can expect to gain a high-level understanding of human sensing capabilities, covering taste, olfaction, tactile senses, vision, and audition. The curriculum is designed to explain the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses, offering an appreciation of how sensory information is processed by the brain. Students may anticipate engaging with practical cases, such as dysfunctions in olfaction, and benefiting from optional podcast conversations with experts in the field. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a solid foundation in sensory science.
Provides a general appreciation, not hyper-specialized depth.
"The description mentions a 'high-level' explanation, which suits my general interest perfectly."
"I anticipate a broad overview, rather than highly specialized academic content."
"This course seems perfect for gaining an appreciation without overwhelming technical detail."
Optional podcasts with experts provide added perspective.
"The optional podcast conversations with experts seem like a valuable bonus to the lectures."
"I'd love to hear additional insights from leaders in the sensory research field."
"Having experts weigh in on the topics is a great way to deepen my understanding."
Includes activities to assess real-world sensory cases.
"The activities, like taste adaptation, sound like a great way to learn by doing."
"I'm keen to experience cases such as dysfunctions in olfaction firsthand."
"It's good that the course includes practical assessment examples within its modules."
Explains anatomy, physiology, and chemistry effectively.
"The deep dive into the anatomy and physiology of each sense is exactly what I am looking for."
"I'm looking forward to understanding the chemical basis of how we perceive things."
"I hope to build a strong scientific foundation in sensory processes through this material."
Covers all five major human senses in detail.
"I appreciate how the course systematically covers taste, smell, touch, sight, and hearing."
"This course seems to offer a complete picture of human sensory capabilities."
"I'd expect to gain a broad understanding across all the human senses from this course."

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 Sensory Science: The Senses with these activities:
Read "Sensation and Perception" by E. Bruce Goldstein
Enhance your understanding of the fundamental principles of sensory perception by reading a comprehensive textbook that covers various sensory modalities.
View Sensation and Perception on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read each chapter thoroughly and take notes.
  • Complete the end-of-chapter exercises to test your comprehension.
Explore online tutorials on sensory perception
Supplement your course learning by exploring online tutorials that provide interactive demonstrations and explanations of sensory perception concepts.
Browse courses on Sensory Perception
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on sensory perception.
  • Choose tutorials that cover topics you find challenging or interesting.
  • Follow the instructions and engage with the interactive content.
Complete taste and smell identification exercises
Engage in exercises that test your ability to identify different tastes and smells, enhancing your sensory discrimination skills.
Browse courses on Sensory Perception
Show steps
  • Gather a variety of food and non-food items with distinct tastes and smells.
  • Blindfold yourself and try to identify each item based solely on taste or smell.
  • Record your results and identify areas where you need improvement.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a study group to discuss sensory perception
Engage in collaborative discussions with peers to exchange knowledge, clarify concepts, and gain diverse perspectives on sensory perception.
Browse courses on Sensory Perception
Show steps
  • Find a study group or form one with classmates.
  • Choose a specific topic related to sensory perception to discuss.
  • Prepare by reading relevant course materials and doing research.
Volunteer at a sensory research lab or organization
Gain hands-on experience in sensory research by volunteering in a lab or organization, providing you with practical insights into sensory evaluation techniques.
Show steps
  • Identify sensory research labs or organizations in your area.
  • Contact the lab or organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Participate in sensory testing and data collection activities.
Develop a multimedia presentation on a specific sense
Create a visually appealing and informative presentation that deepens your understanding of the structure, function, and physiology of a particular sense.
Browse courses on Sensory Systems
Show steps
  • Choose a specific sense (e.g., vision, hearing, taste) to focus on.
  • Research the anatomy, physiology, and function of the chosen sense.
  • Design and create a multimedia presentation using images, videos, and diagrams.
Develop a sensory evaluation plan for a specific product
Apply your knowledge of sensory perception to design a plan for evaluating the sensory qualities of a product, enhancing your understanding of practical applications.
Browse courses on Sensory Evaluation
Show steps
  • Identify the product to be evaluated.
  • Determine the specific sensory attributes to be tested.
  • Develop a testing protocol that outlines the procedures for conducting the evaluation.

Career center

Learners who complete Sensory Science: The Senses will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sensory Analyst
Sensory Analysts are responsible for evaluating the sensory qualities of products, such as food, beverages, and cosmetics. They use their knowledge of the senses to identify and describe the different sensory attributes of a product, and to assess its overall quality. This course would be helpful for Sensory Analysts because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to evaluate the sensory qualities of products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sensory Analyst
Flavorist
Flavorists create and develop new flavors for products such as food, beverages, and cosmetics. They use their knowledge of the senses to identify and combine different flavors to create new and exciting taste experiences. This course would be helpful for Flavorists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of taste. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to create and evaluate new flavors.
See salaries and explore the career path for Flavorist
Perfumist
Perfumists create and develop new fragrances for products such as perfumes, colognes, and candles. They use their knowledge of the senses to identify and combine different scents to create new and exciting fragrances. This course would be helpful for Perfumists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of olfaction. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to create and evaluate new fragrances.
See salaries and explore the career path for Perfumist
Food Scientist
Food Scientists develop and improve food products. They use their knowledge of food science to create new and innovative products, and to ensure that food is safe and nutritious. This course would be helpful for Food Scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of taste. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to evaluate the sensory qualities of food.
See salaries and explore the career path for Food Scientist
Beverage Developer
Beverage Developers create and develop new beverages, such as soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic drinks. They use their knowledge of the senses to identify and combine different flavors to create new and exciting beverages. This course would be helpful for Beverage Developers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of taste. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to create and evaluate new beverages.
See salaries and explore the career path for Beverage Developer
Cosmetic Scientist
Cosmetic Scientists develop and improve cosmetic products, such as makeup, skincare, and hair care products. They use their knowledge of the senses to evaluate the sensory qualities of cosmetic products, and to ensure that they are safe and effective. This course would be helpful for Cosmetic Scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to evaluate the sensory qualities of cosmetic products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cosmetic Scientist
Sensory Marketer
Sensory Marketers use their knowledge of the senses to create and implement marketing campaigns that are designed to appeal to the senses. They use techniques such as sensory branding and sensory packaging to create marketing campaigns that are memorable and effective. This course would be helpful for Sensory Marketers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It would also help them to develop the skills needed to create and evaluate sensory marketing campaigns.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sensory Marketer
User Experience (UX) Designer
User Experience (UX) Designers create and improve the user experience of products and services. They use their knowledge of the senses to design products and services that are easy to use and enjoyable to experience. This course may be helpful for UX Designers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to design products and services that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience (UX) Designer
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designers create and develop new products, such as furniture, appliances, and electronics. They use their knowledge of the senses to design products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be helpful for Industrial Designers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to design products that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer
Architect
Architects design and create buildings and other structures. They use their knowledge of the senses to design buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be helpful for Architects because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to design buildings that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architect
Interior designer
Interior Designers create and design the interiors of buildings and other spaces. They use their knowledge of the senses to design spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be helpful for Interior Designers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to design spaces that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designers create and design visual communications, such as logos, posters, and websites. They use their knowledge of the senses to design communications that are both visually appealing and effective. This course may be helpful for Graphic Designers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to design communications that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic Designer
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They use their knowledge of the senses to design products that meet the needs of consumers. This course may be helpful for Product Managers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to design products that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for the development and execution of marketing campaigns. They use their knowledge of the senses to create campaigns that are effective and engaging. This course may be helpful for Marketing Managers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to create campaigns that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers are responsible for leading and motivating sales teams. They use their knowledge of the senses to create sales presentations that are persuasive and effective. This course may be helpful for Sales Managers because it would provide them with a foundation in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the senses. It may also help them to develop the skills needed to create sales presentations that are appealing to the senses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Reading list

We've selected nine 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 Sensory Science: The Senses.
Cover image
Tools and Applications of Sensory and Consumer...
Save
Provides a practical guide to sensory evaluation techniques, including how to design and conduct sensory tests. It valuable resource for food scientists and other professionals involved in sensory evaluation.
Tools and Applications of Sensory and Consumer...
Paperback
Check
Tools and Applications of Sensory and Consumer...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Sensation & Perception
Save
Explores the psychology of taste, including how we perceive and experience different tastes. It valuable resource for psychologists and other researchers interested in the sense of taste.
Sensation & Perception
Paperback
Check
Sensation & Perception
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Isak Dinesen
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sense of smell, including its history, physiology, and psychology. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the sense of smell.
Isak Dinesen
Paperback
$$
Isak Dinesen: The Life of a Storyteller
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Spelunking Through Life
Save
Classic work on the sense of touch. It provides a comprehensive overview of the anatomy, physiology, and psychology of touch.
Spelunking Through Life
Paperback
Check
Spelunking Through Life
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Sensory Studies Manifesto
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the senses, including how we perceive and experience the world around us. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the senses.
The Sensory Studies Manifesto
Paperback
Check
The Sensory Studies Manifesto
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Sensehacking
Save
Comprehensive handbook on the senses, written by leading experts in the field. It provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on the senses.
Sensehacking
Paperback
Check
Sensehacking
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Thinking with Type
Save
Explores the role of the senses in design, beyond the traditional focus on vision. It valuable resource for designers and other professionals interested in creating multisensory experiences.
Thinking with Type: A Critical Guide for Designers,...
Paperback
$$
Thinking with Type, 2nd revised ed.: A Critical...
Paperback
$$
Thinking with type: A Critical Guide for Designers,...
Paperback
$$
Thinking with Type: A Primer for Designers: A...
Paperback
$
E. Lupton's Thinking with Type (Thinking with Type:...
Paperback
$$
Thinking with Type: A Critical Guide for Designers,...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Psychology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the neurology of vision. It valuable resource for neuroscientists and other researchers interested in the visual system.
The Psychology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Paperback
Check
The Psychology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Living Well with Tinnitus
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the psychology of hearing. It valuable resource for psychologists and other researchers interested in the auditory system.
Living Well with Tinnitus: A self-help guide using...
Paperback
$$
Living Well with Tinnitus: A self-help guide using...
Kindle Edition
$

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Course image
Effort
13 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
Rebecca Bleibaum
Language
English
This course belongs to a collection called Essentials of Sensory Science. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Sensory Science: The Senses (viewing)
  2. Sensory Science: Measuring the Senses
  3. Sensory Science: Conducting Tests
  4. Introduction to Sensory Science
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Helps learners gain a foundational understanding of five key sensory systems
Instructors are recognized for their expertise in their field
Features optional podcast conversations with experts in sensory research
Builds a foundation of sensory biology for beginning students
Requires no prerequisite courses
Provides hands-on activities to enhance learning
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