Enhancing Focus Through Science

APU Hosts Engaging Lecture on Visual Attention

On 18th October 2024, the School of Psychology (SoP) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) had the privilege of welcoming Dr Kait Clark, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology from the University of the West of England, Bristol. Dr Kait, an expert in visual cognition and cognitive neuroscience, led an interactive guest lecture on the topic Visual Attention: Training and Individual Differences.

Dr Kait Clark (3rd from the right) poses for a group photo with faculty members and students from the School of Psychology at APU.

The event, organised by SoP’s Lecturer Ms Raihan Munirah and Associate Head Ms Vinorra Shaker, with support from Mr Muhammad Nabil Danial of Student Services, offered students a fascinating insight into how we can train our brains to sharpen visual attention.

Dr Kait explained how visual attention, a key cognitive process, allows us to focus on important details in our environment while ignoring distractions. With her extensive research background, including a PhD from Duke University and experience consulting for the United States Department of Homeland Security, she guided students through the complexities of visual attention.

The session delved into how individual differences and expertise can influence visual perception, using experimental techniques to understand everything from motion detection to complex visual searches. She also highlighted the importance of responsible research practices in student-led research projects, offering practical guidance for future psychologists.

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A token of appreciation is presented to Dr Kait Clark (right) by SoP’s Associate Head, Ms Vinorra Shaker, and Lecturer, Ms Raihan Munirah (left).

Through this engaging lecture, students learned how visual attention impacts everyday tasks, education, and even athletic performance. Dr Kait’s visit emphasised APU’s dedication to offering students cutting-edge knowledge, equipping them with skills that extend well beyond the classroom.