A microcomputer network will be purchased to improve the content of laboratory protions of research design and congnitive psychology courses. Specific equipment includes six microcomputers connected in a network, data acquisition hardware (for speech digitization and analysis), and software for demonstration, simulation, and student conducted experimentation in cognitive, social, and perceptual psychology. These instruments will significantly improve these courses by presenting fundamental experimental paradigms and by facilitating active student participation in the design and conduct of research projects. This "hands-on" experience in the laboratory will introduce students to the essential methodologies of psychology and develop their critical skills. In addition, the equipment will be used for demonstration purposes in the areas of perceptual, social, and language psychology.
