Art and Science of Learning

The course will emphasize normal adult learning, in comparison with learning of special populations, nonhuman animals, and computers. Topics will include perceptual learning, memorization, search, conditioning in changing environments, and motor learning. The role of types and amount of practice, motivation, and talent in the development of expertise in art, music, dance, science, sports, and games will be examined. Readings will be based on laboratory experiments and case histories of experts in a range of fields. Enrollment limited to 19 first year students.