A computer-based laboratory with a primary emphasis on research in cognition is being developed. With multipurpose computer interfacing with lab instrumentation and with comprehensive software packages, students are able to conduct experiments, computer simulations, and exercises for lab classes accompanying courses in cognitive psychology, physiological psychology, and psychology of learning and for undergraduate independent study and senior thesis research. Labs in cognitive psychology feature experiments on topics such as perception, memory, and prose comprehension. Electrophysiological recording and other equipment used in physiological psychology labs give students hands-on opportunities to study electro-physiological and neuropsychological factors of cognitive processing (e.g. evoked potentials.) The grant also upgrades and improves current learning labs; for example, it incorporates simulations of classical conditioning, experiments on concept formation, and biofeedback research. Also, students interested in conducting their own research have far more options than currently available. In summary, this grant gives students opportunities to become familiar with the use of computers and modern scientific equipment as well as helping them develop the scientific skills and understanding necessary to participate more fully in the reserach process in psychology. The institution is matching the NSF grant with an equal amount of funds.
