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Welcome to the Human Cognition (HC) Unit
Welcome to the Human Cognition unit, part of the LabLearner’s Middle School Faith and Reason Series.
This unit provides a unique opportunity for you and your students to explore the fascinating processes of the human brain and mind—through hands-on lab work, real-world applications, critical thinking, and deep spiritual reflection.
Investigation 1: The Human Brain
In Investigation One, you will use a sheep brain in the lab, but human models will also be available for comparison. The focus of the lab will be the four lobes of the brain (frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital) and their functions.
In the second part of the lab, you will be directed to find various structures on the brain specimens and then draw them on swim caps. This lab should give you a good understanding of the overall anatomy of the brain.
Investigation 2: Simple Information Processing (reflexes)
You will perform a series of reflex and neurological tests to explore how the nervous system responds to stimuli. You will practice basic neuro exam techniques, including the two-point discrimination test, to measure touch sensitivity on different parts of the body. Using this data, you will create a sensory map, or homunculus, that shows how much brain area is devoted to different regions.
Investigation 3: Complex Information Processing (Learning and Memory)
In Investigation Three, you will continue to study and demonstrate the Information Processing Model of human cognition and learning. During this Investigation, you will:
- Discover how permanent, long term memories are made.
- Demonstrate how critical thinking and decision-making takes as well as factors that may inhibit this process.
- Learn to use and control your own information processing methods to help study and improve your cognitive abilities.
Investigation 4: Decision Making and Artificial Intelligence
In Investigation Four, you will learn about the slowest developing component of human cognition, executive functions. During this Investigation, you will:
- Learn that the brain’s frontal lobe involves higher-level thinking, planning, and problem-solving.
- Learn that the frontal lobe and executive functions are not fully developed until late adolescence/early adulthood.
- Begin to consider the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and intelligently discuss the opportunities and challenges this exciting new technology presents.
Investigation 5: Uniquely Human – The Moral Mind
Human beings possess a distinctive ability to reflect upon their own thoughts, actions, and intentions. This investigation explores how the brain supports moral awareness—how regions like the prefrontal cortex and limbic system work together in empathy, conscience, and decision-making.
Students examine what neuroscience reveals about free will, virtue, and responsibility, and how these insights illuminate what makes us truly human. Through case studies, reflection, and comparative analysis with artificial intelligence, learners consider the biological roots and spiritual dimensions of moral judgment.