Discussion 1: Perception The brain’s interpretation of stimuli informs perception

Discussion 1: Perception

The brain’s interpretation of stimuli informs perception. Two theoretical approaches to perception include bottom-up and top-down perception.

Bottom-up perception describes the perception of stimuli based on concrete characteristics. Top-down perception describes perception of external stimuli based on prior knowledge about their properties. Cognitive psychologists study how and when individuals employ these two types of perception to determine their significance and to shed light on human experiences of the world. 

For this Discussion, consider differences between bottom-up and top-down perception.

With these thoughts in mind:

By Day 3

Post a brief explanation of the active nature of perception. Then explain two differences between bottom-up and top-down perception. Finally, provide one example of how everyday experience would be altered if bottom-up perception were impaired, as well as one example of how everyday experience would be altered if top-down perception were impaired.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.