Sensory Science: Measuring the Senses from Coursera

What's inside

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

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: Measuring the Senses with these activities:

Review Basic Statistics

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Refresh your knowledge of basic statistical concepts to enhance your understanding of sensory data analysis.

Browse courses on Statistics

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Review concepts of mean, median, and standard deviation.
Practice interpreting statistical graphs and tables.

Read "Sensory Evaluation Techniques"

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Supplement your understanding of sensory science by reviewing a classic textbook.

View Practical Guide to Comparative Advertising:... on Amazon

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Identify key concepts and theories covered in relevant chapters.
Summarize the main points and apply them to real-world sensory scenarios.

Organize Course Materials

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Enhance your learning by organizing and reviewing course notes and materials.

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Gather and categorize lecture notes, assignments, and readings.
Summarize key points and create study aids.

Five other activities

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Explore Sensory Science Online

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Review foundational concepts related to sensory science through online tutorials.

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Identify relevant online tutorials or courses.
Review tutorial materials to familiarize yourself with basic sensory science principles.
Complete practice exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.

Design Sensory Experiments

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Develop your understanding of sensory testing methods by creating your own experiment design.

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Choose a specific sensory attribute to investigate.
Determine appropriate testing methods and stimuli.
Design a protocol for data collection and analysis.

Sensory Data Interpretation Discussion

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Deepen your understanding of sensory data analysis by discussing interpretations with peers.

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Select a set of sensory data for analysis.
Interpret the data independently.
Join a group discussion to share and compare interpretations.

Participate in Sensory Evaluation Panels

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Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge by participating in sensory evaluation panels.

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Identify opportunities to participate in sensory evaluation panels.
Follow instructions carefully and provide accurate sensory feedback.

Thurstonian Modeling Exercises

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Build proficiency in applying Thurstonian Modeling techniques.

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Review the theory behind Thurstonian Modeling.
Solve practice problems involving Thurstonian Modeling.
Apply Thurstonian Modeling to analyze real-world sensory data.

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sensory Scientist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Flavorist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Perfumer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Food Scientist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sensory Analyst

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consumer Scientist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Brand Manager

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Packaging Designer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cosmetic Scientist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Neuropsychologist

Reading list

We've selected six 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: Measuring the Senses.

Practical Guide to Comparative Advertising

Save

Comprehensive overview of sensory evaluation techniques and their applications in food, beverage, and other industries. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the principles and practices of sensory evaluation.

Practical Guide to Comparative Advertising: Dare to...

Paperback

$$$

Practical Guide to Comparative Advertising: Dare to...

Kindle Edition

$$$

Psychophysics

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This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychophysics, which is concerned with the relationship between physical stimuli and their psychological effects. It valuable resource for understanding the basic principles of sensory measurement.

Psychophysics: Introduction to Its Perceptual,...

Paperback

$$$

Psychophysics in Action

Kindle Edition

$$$

Understanding Natural Flavors

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Provides a practical guide to the sensory analysis of foods. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the evaluation of food products.

Understanding Natural Flavors

Paperback

$$$

Food Choice, Acceptance and Consumption

Save

Provides a practical guide to the sensory evaluation of food and beverage products. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the evaluation of food products.

Food Choice, Acceptance and Consumption

Paperback

$$$$

Table Wines

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of sensory evaluation in the food industry. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the evaluation of food products.

Table Wines: The Technology of Their Production

Kindle Edition

$$$

Nursing Assessment

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of sensory evaluation in the food industry. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the evaluation of food products.

Sensory Science

Measuring the Senses

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