Nawal Abboub Ph D

We have seen these past few years, and particularly in early 2020, the crucial role science has for facing complex societal problems. We have learned a great deal about human cognition using fundamental science approaches. However, progress has been slow in bringing these insights into our society such as the production of goods and services (including social goods). This is likely due to a host of causes, of which we will target two common weaknesses in (cognitive) scientists: We routinely have difficulties (a) devising feasible solutions based on science knowledge; and (b) communicating with non-scientists and more broadly to a general audience. This class aims to enable cognitive science students to be agents of this change, by providing them with experiences to help them overcome these weaknesses. Students will be faced with a variety of case studies, typically led by an expert guest working on structures varied in size (from small start-ups to large industries) and goal (social change, health, technology, entertainment, etc.) Additionally, they will engage in group projects, allowing them to apply their newly gained skills in a full cycle of devising solutions, and communicating.