Sensorimotor Neurophysiology of Active Sensing

Abstract

This tutorial is comprised of three 50-minute lectures on topics selected to provide the key background information needed to appreciate neural mechanisms for processing somatosensory information.  Concepts include efference copy, receptor adaptation, spinal circuit operations, and multimodal cortical processing.  Collated, hard copies of lecture notes will be provided.  Each speaker will also give an introduction to his or her research program and invite questions. 

Motivation

Many haptics investigators have little or no formal training in neurophysiology. Thus the goal of this tutorial is to have active investigators of sensorimotor neurophysiology provide up-to-date information on key topics.

Primary Objectives

To convey a deeper understanding of basic neural mechanisms for processing somatosensory and motor signals.

Target Audience

Investigators with backgrounds in engineering or psychology, but little or no training in neurophysiology.