The AP Psychology students visited the Museum of Illusions on Thursday, March 7, 2024. The trip was chaperoned by Mrs. Dawson, Mrs. Cokinos, Mrs. Crisera, Mrs, Pintar, Mrs. Valestrand, and Mr. Alicea. The Student Educational Enrichment and Development program (SEED) Foundation generously sponsored the field trip.
The students met at Sayville train station in the early morning to take the LIRR into New York City. From there, the students walked to the museum, taking in the various sights along the way. They arrived at their destination just after opening and were able to enjoy the museum all to themselves for one hour. The students were able to see and experience classic optical illusions, installations, and spellbinding images related to the AP Psychology curriculum. Through this intriguing visual, sensory, and educational experience, the students were able to apply what they had learned about sensory experiences, monocular cues, and Gestalt principles as well as deepen their understanding of the AP Psychology curriculum. The students were able to see the classic Muller Lyer Illusion and Hollow Face Illusion along with other images and optical illusions that play on their perception to show the mysterious workings of the human mind.
The students took photos in the classic Beuchet Chair and experienced the effects of the cloning table and “head on a platter” installation. There was a lot of laughter to be had as the students got to experience perception-changing rooms such as the tilted room and infinity room in real time.
After leaving the museum, the students walked down the cobblestone streets of the Meatpacking District to the High Line. The students mindfully walked along the historic, elevated rail line taking in the beautiful sights including the Hudson River, the spectacular architectural designs of the buildings, and large colorful murals. Afterwards, the students enjoyed lunch at Moynihan Train Hall before heading home.
The AP Psychology students and chaperones are beyond grateful to the Student Educational Enrichment and Development program (SEED) Foundation for sponsoring the field trip!