Cognitive Tools in Visual Learning

In the video “Prof. Judy Fan: Cognitive Tools for Making the Invisible Visible,” presented at the MIT Quest for Intelligence on April 8, 2025, Judy Fan explores how cognitive tools like drawing and data visualization expand human perception. She delves into the mechanisms by which visual abstractions such as drawing aid learning, inference, and communication. While effectively arguing that tools like drawings go beyond visual resemblance to embody cognitive processes, the talk could further explore alternative cognitive strategy frameworks. Despite some missing evidence on how cognitive tools affect broader cultural learning, Judy Fan successfully showcases the potential of these tools in augmenting human intelligence. However, a deeper dive into systematic methodology across various cognitive contexts would enhance the discourse. The talk is insightful but would benefit from addressing counter-perspectives on the limitations of cognitive tools in varying learning situations.