Spring 1998 Project

Applied Perception and Service Learning

Understanding Perception can Improve Quality of Life and Interactions with Others

Go to 1997 project page. Return to Perception 440 information page.

Project members 1998:

(Back row): Joseph Heggins, Erik Steen, John Angell, Julie Terry, Amy Wilkerson (grad. assistant), (Front row): Dr. Lauren Scharff, Glenda Demaree, Toni Ray, Shannon Crouch, Nicole Cook, Mandy Taylor, Jennifer Ewing

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Some Examples of Applied Research in Perception

There is a need for pure and applied perception research. By better understanding how a perceptual system normally works we can better understand perceptual disorders and design environments for all individuals. Below are some topics which summarize different areas of applied perception research.

• Artificial Retinas - by John Angell
• Phantom Limb Pain - by Toni Ray
• Cochlear Implants - by Mandy Taylor
• Macular Degeneration and Visual Hallucinations - by Erik Steen
• Alzheimer's and Perceptual Changes - by Nicole Cook
• Perceptual Factors which Affect Driving Safety - by Shannon Crouch
• Effects of Industrial Noise Exposure - by Joesph Heggins
• Taste Perception of Fat - by Julie Terry
• Hyperacusis - by Glenda Demaree

Service-Learning Project 1998

In order to share some of what we learn this semester, we will go to TJR Middle School and interact with seventh graders in Mrs. Leah Kahn's science class. Here we will give brief presentations and demonstrations, some of which will simulate the perceptual losses often seen in aging percptual systems. Click here for a summary of this 1998 service-learning visit.

Applied Project 1998

Finally, we designed and ran an applied experiment which empirically tested factors which affect readability of webpages and other graphical user interfaces. Click here for the experimental paper.

For some general information on Service Learning and the projects at Stephen F. Austin State University: The Center for Service-Learning and Eldercare