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Sensory Science

Measuring the Senses

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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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.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
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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Reviews summary

Foundational sensory science for professionals

According to students, this course offers a strong foundational understanding of sensory science and measurement techniques. Learners particularly commend the clear and concise lectures and the instructor's ability to simplify complex topics like psychophysics and Thurstonian Modeling. While highly praised for its academic rigor and relevance to fields like product development, food science, and marketing research, some students note a limited emphasis on hands-on practical application, describing it as more theoretical than applied. The course is generally well-structured and serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand the scientific basis of sensory perception.
Opinions vary on pace and level of interactivity.
"The pace was just right for me. It builds a very strong foundation."
"The content is good, but it's very theoretical... It felt a bit dry at times, and the quizzes were straightforward, almost too simple given the complexity..."
"The course has good information, but the delivery could be more dynamic. It's a lot of lecture-based content with not many interactive elements."
Content progression is logical, building a solid base.
"Very informative. The modules are well-structured, and the progression from basic brain function to complex measurement techniques is logical."
"Informative and well-structured. It clearly lays out the scientific principles behind sensory measurement."
"The depth was appropriate for an introductory course, setting the stage for more advanced topics."
Instructor effectively simplifies complex scientific concepts.
"The instructor's passion really shines through."
"Engaging instructor and comprehensive overview of sensory measurement."
"The concepts are explained with great clarity... The instructor's explanations are superb."
Provides a robust understanding of sensory science principles.
"This course provided a fantastic introduction to sensory science. The lectures were clear and concise, making complex topics like psychophysics understandable."
"It builds a very strong foundation... As a graduate student in neuroscience, this course provided an incredibly solid foundation in sensory measurement techniques."
"I use this knowledge daily in my marketing research job. It helps me design better surveys and interpret data more accurately."
Highly valuable for careers in sensory evaluation and research.
"I use this knowledge daily in my marketing research job. It helps me design better surveys and interpret data more accurately. Highly practical for professionals."
"As a food scientist, this course was exactly what I needed to deepen my understanding of sensory evaluation. The explanations of discrimination testing methods were thorough..."
"An excellent course for anyone looking to understand the scientific basis of sensory perception and measurement... Highly recommend for students in psychology or consumer research."
Course emphasizes theory over hands-on exercises.
"While it provides a strong theoretical base, I wished for a bit more emphasis on practical, hands-on lab exercises or real-world case studies..."
"It was too academic for my taste, focusing heavily on theoretical models without enough real-world demonstrations. I found myself needing to search for external resources..."
"Disappointed with the lack of practical exercises. The course is almost entirely theoretical, which wasn't what I was looking for. This feels more like a textbook in video form."

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.
View Practical Guide to Comparative Advertising:... on Amazon
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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sensory Scientist
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Cover image
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
$$$
Practical Guide to Comparative Advertising: Dare to...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Psychophysics
Save
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
$$$
Psychophysics in Action
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Understanding Natural Flavors
Save
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
$$$
Cover image
Food Choice, Acceptance and Consumption
Save
Provides a practical guide to the sensory evaluation of food and beverage products. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the evaluation of food products.
Food Choice, Acceptance and Consumption
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Table Wines
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of sensory evaluation in the food industry. It valuable resource for anyone involved in the evaluation of food products.
Table Wines: The Technology of Their Production
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
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.
Nursing Assessment
Paperback
Check
Nursing Assessment
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 2-3 hours/week
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
  2. Sensory Science: Measuring the Senses (viewing)
  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
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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