An introduction to the historical and contemporary issues, and research findings of the core cognitive science disciplines including artificial intelligence, linguistics, philosophy, and psychology. The emphasis will be on the ways that the interactions among these disciplines leads to an enhanced understanding of the processes of intelligence and intelligent systems.

NOTE    May not be taken concurrently with or subsequently to either CISC 352* or PSYC 220.

An introduction to the science of mind and thought, with emphasis on philosophical issues, empirical studies, and theoretical models, both symbolic and connectionist. Topics will include information theory, perception and attention, pattern recognition, working memory, long-term memory, skill acquisition, problem-solving, language, and consciousness.

Presents the functional programming language LISP and its use in the development of cognitive models. Students will become familiar with techniques for developing systems that model processes of reading, problem solving and semantic activation.

Introduction to neural and genetic computing. Topics include associative memory systems, neural optimization strategies, supervised and unsupervised classification networks, genetic algorithms, genetic and evolutionary programming. Applications are examined, and the relation to biologic systems is discussed.

Topic selected under the supervision of a member of one of the faculties of CISC, LING, PHIL, PSYC. Emphasis may be on experimental, theoretical, or computer implementation topics. Independent research, an oral presentation, and a written report are required.