About this course
How do bats “see” with sound, elephants “hear” with their feet, cats “speak” with a single look, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools “understand” different species’ emotions? This course delves into the fascinating world of sensory systems in animals and AI, drawing upon research in cognitive neuroscience to examine how different species – and machines – perceive and interact with their environments. From the magnetic navigation of migratory birds to AI tools decoding animal communication, students will explore how sensory modalities shape cognition across both biological and artificial systems. This course bridges psychology, neuroscience, and technology to inspire critical thinking about consciousness, sentience, and our responsibilities toward both natural and artificial minds.
Syllabus
Summer 2026 (Draft)
Go to syllabusThis is a draft syllabus. The final syllabus will be available here a few days prior to the new course’s first start date.
Pre-requisites
One course in Neuroscience, Physiological Psychology, Biological Psychology, Cognitive Science, or Cognitive Psychology at the university level.
Faculty
Sebastian Scott Engen
FacultyCand.It (Cognitive Science, Aarhus University, 2022). Chief Editor, Aarhus University Newspaper, 2022-2023. Artist, Experimentarium, 2022-2023. Researcher, Aarhus University, 2018-2023. With DIS since 2023.