TITLE

The best optical illusions of the year 2021

(Winners for 2023 links added below)

DESCRIPTION

What a great contest that challenges our sensation, perception, and cognitive functions.  This yearly contest provides absolutely phenomenal optical illusions.  The illusions are explained in terms of our perceptional and cognitive understandings.  “The annual illusion contest is run by the Neural Correlate Society, an organization devoted to promoting awareness of the science behind perception and cognition. For 17 years the annual contest has consistently delivered an assortment of compelling illusions, frequently underpinned by fascinating scientific principles.”  Check out the illusions for study at home and great illustrations in class.

SOURCE

New Atlas, December 29, 2021, by Rich Haridy

LINK TO RESOURCE

2021 Winners

https://newatlas.com/science/best-optical-illusions-year-2021-contest-winner/?fbclid=IwAR35FhvPgZKSedttI9GvG81cVsmzonfz3T7YPtVNwPzbIZTRwXTTvj0jEJIundefined

(Tiny URL)  https://tinyurl.com/4x5cc9bb

2023 Winners

https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/winning-illusions-best-illusion-of-the-year-contest-2023

(Tiny URL)  https://tinyurl.com/4jzfz8td

CLASS DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

•What is an optical illusion?  Why are optical illusions of interest in the field of Psychology?

•How do these illustrate how our perceptual and cognitive functions operate together?

•What is the neuroscience involved in understanding how an optical illusion fools us?