Sensory Science: Measuring the Senses from Coursera

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Syllabus

The Senses and the Brain

In this module, we will dive into the senses and the brain and discuss tricks the senses may play. We will then discuss the mind and how information is processed. We’ll finish up this module with the Theory of Sensory Measurement and Psychophysics. There is also an optional podcast conversation with Dr. Martin Kern. Let’s get started.

Scaling

What is happening cognitively when we do scaling? In this module, we will review what scaling is, the purpose, and methods of scaling. We’ll wrap up this module with a discussion on the different types of scales, including ordinal scales, quantitative scales, interval scales, and analysis. Let’s begin.

Measurements

In this module, we will continue our discussion on scales and measurements. We will also discuss methods of scaling and ranking and review other types of scales, such as Hedonic scales, Label Affective Magnitude, Just-About-Right, and other scales of interest. Let's begin.

Discrimination Theory and Testing Methods

Why do some people perform better on tests than others? In this final module, we will end our discussion with an overview of discrimination testing methods. We'll also take a closer look at discrimination tests and response bias - and how to avoid it. We'll move on to Thurstonian Modeling and finish up with an optional podcast conversation with Lori Rothman. Let's begin.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches scaling, which is essential for understanding how the brain interprets sensory stimuli

Develops skills in sensory testing and discrimination, which are highly relevant to product development and research

Provides hands-on labs and interactive materials, which enhance the learning experience

Taught by Rebecca Bleibaum, a renowned expert in sensory science

Course includes podcast conversations with industry professionals, providing insights into real-world applications

Requires basic statistics knowledge, which may not be suitable for all learners

Career center

Learners who complete Sensory Science: Measuring the Senses will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Sensory Scientist

Sensory Scientists study the senses and how they work. They use this knowledge to develop new products and improve existing ones. This course would be helpful for Sensory Scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in the science of sensory perception. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Sensory Scientists.

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Flavorist

Flavorists create and develop flavors for food and beverages. They use their knowledge of chemistry and sensory science to create flavors that are appealing to consumers. This course would be helpful for Flavorists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Flavorists.

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Perfumer

Perfumers create and develop perfumes and other fragrances. They use their knowledge of chemistry and sensory science to create scents that are appealing to consumers. This course would be helpful for Perfumers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Perfumers.

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Food Scientist

Food Scientists develop new food products and improve existing ones. They use their knowledge of food science to ensure that food is safe, nutritious, and appealing to consumers. This course would be helpful for Food Scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Food Scientists.

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Market Researcher

Market Researchers study consumer behavior and preferences. They use this information to help businesses develop new products and marketing campaigns. This course would be helpful for Market Researchers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Market Researchers.

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Sensory Analyst

Sensory Analysts evaluate the sensory properties of food and other products. They use their knowledge of sensory science to ensure that products meet the desired sensory specifications. This course would be helpful for Sensory Analysts because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Sensory Analysts.

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Consumer Scientist

Consumer Scientists study consumer behavior and preferences. They use this information to help businesses develop new products and marketing campaigns. This course would be helpful for Consumer Scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Consumer Scientists.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers are responsible for the development and execution of marketing campaigns. They work with product managers and other team members to create and implement marketing plans. This course would be helpful for Marketing Managers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Marketing Managers.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development and marketing of new products. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to bring new products to market. This course would be helpful for Product Managers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Product Managers.

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Brand Manager

Brand Managers are responsible for the development and management of brands. They work with marketing managers and other team members to create and implement brand strategies. This course would be helpful for Brand Managers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Brand Managers.

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Packaging Designer

Packaging Designers are responsible for the design of packaging. They work with marketing managers and other team members to create packaging that is visually appealing and functional. This course may be helpful for Packaging Designers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Packaging Designers.

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Cosmetic Scientist

Cosmetic Scientists develop and evaluate cosmetic products. They use their knowledge of chemistry and sensory science to create products that are safe, effective, and appealing to consumers. This course would be helpful for Cosmetic Scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Cosmetic Scientists.

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Industrial Designer

Industrial Designers are responsible for the design of products. They work with engineers and other team members to create products that are functional and visually appealing. This course may be helpful for Industrial Designers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Industrial Designers.

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UX Designer

UX Designers are responsible for the design of user interfaces. They work with product managers and other team members to create user interfaces that are easy to use and visually appealing. This course may be helpful for UX Designers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for UX Designers.

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Neuropsychologist

Neuropsychologists study the relationship between the brain and behavior. They use this knowledge to diagnose and treat neurological disorders. This course may be helpful for Neuropsychologists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in sensory science. The course would also teach them how to design and conduct sensory tests, which is an essential skill for Neuropsychologists.

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Sensory Science

Measuring the Senses

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