Adam Krawitz

Presenter: Adam Krawitz

Title: Active learning for computational models of cognition

Abstract:

“The essential purpose of cognitive modeling is to allow investigation of the implications of ideas, beyond the limits of human thinking” (p. 16, McClelland, 2009). Thus, computational models of cognition are fundamental tools for the development of psychological theory. But how do we give our students first-hand experience with modeling when they often lack the background to install and use highly technical and bespoke software?

Online computational notebooks give students hands-on experience with computational methods with fewer barriers. In addition, the notebook format brings the underlying code, the running example, and the accompanying explanations together in a single document. When used as assignments, students can add their own responses in the form of text, graphics, and running code. We will explore examples from the assignments for the seminar course Computational Beauty of Mind, implemented as online computational notebooks on the Observable platform.