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Rebecca Bleibaum

The brain is the most sophisticated sensory interpreter that we know of. Our brain is like a very powerful computer, but no engineered computer exists that can mimic our human sensory capabilities. This course will explore sensory science by examining how the senses are connected to the brain and how the brain makes meaning of the signals it receives. Various types of testing, scales, and measurements are described that allow scientists to quantify senses and the brain’s experience of senses. Through this course, you will learn to employ scientific approaches such as discrimination testing and Thurstonian Modeling to measure the senses.

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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.
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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

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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
Refresh your knowledge of basic statistical concepts to enhance your understanding of sensory data analysis.
Browse courses on Statistics
Show steps
  • Review concepts of mean, median, and standard deviation.
  • Practice interpreting statistical graphs and tables.
Read "Sensory Evaluation Techniques"
Supplement your understanding of sensory science by reviewing a classic textbook.
Show steps
  • Identify key concepts and theories covered in relevant chapters.
  • Summarize the main points and apply them to real-world sensory scenarios.
Organize Course Materials
Enhance your learning by organizing and reviewing course notes and materials.
Show steps
  • Gather and categorize lecture notes, assignments, and readings.
  • Summarize key points and create study aids.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Explore Sensory Science Online
Review foundational concepts related to sensory science through online tutorials.
Show steps
  • 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
Develop your understanding of sensory testing methods by creating your own experiment design.
Show steps
  • 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
Deepen your understanding of sensory data analysis by discussing interpretations with peers.
Show steps
  • 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
Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge by participating in sensory evaluation panels.
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to participate in sensory evaluation panels.
  • Follow instructions carefully and provide accurate sensory feedback.
Thurstonian Modeling Exercises
Build proficiency in applying Thurstonian Modeling techniques.
Show steps
  • 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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

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