learning about a stimulus, such as sight or sound, in the external world
non-associative learning
Learning about a stimulus from the external world is a process known as sensory processing. Sensory processing is the ability of our nervous system to receive and interpret information from the environment through various senses such as vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, and proprioception. Processing of sensory information is critical for our interaction with the environment and survival.
Sensory processing begins with the detection of a stimulus in the external world. For example, when we see an object, the light reflecting off the object enters our eyes and activates the photoreceptor cells in our retina. The photoreceptor cells then convert the light signals into electrical signals that are processed by the brain.
Next, the sensory information is organized and integrated in the brain to create a meaningful perception of the world around us. Sensory processing involves two key processes known as bottom-up processing and top-down processing:
1. Bottom-up processing refers to the processing of sensory information that starts at the sensory receptors and moves up to the brain for interpretation. In this process, sensory information is analyzed and organized according to the physical attributes of the stimulus, such as color, shape, size, and texture.
2. Top-down processing refers to the processing of sensory information that starts from pre-existing knowledge or expectations and moves down to the sensory receptors. In this process, sensory information is analyzed and organized according to our perceptual experiences, cognitive factors, and expectations.
The combination of bottom-up and top-down processing facilitates accurate and meaningful interpretation of sensory information from the external world. For example, if you hear a loud sound, your bottom-up processing will tell you that there is a noise, while your top-down processing may help you identify the source of the sound based on your past experiences and expectations.
In summary, sensory processing is a complex process that involves the detection, analysis, and interpretation of sensory information from the external world. The integration of bottom-up and top-down processing allows us to perceive the world around us and interact with it effectively.