Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following structures is NOT a part of the forebrain?
Which of the following structures is NOT a part of the forebrain?
What is the primary role of the thalamus?
What is the primary role of the thalamus?
The ability of the brain to change and adapt in response to experience is known as:
The ability of the brain to change and adapt in response to experience is known as:
Which of the following is NOT a function typically associated with the left hemisphere of the brain?
Which of the following is NOT a function typically associated with the left hemisphere of the brain?
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Which structure plays a crucial role in learning and memory formation?
Which structure plays a crucial role in learning and memory formation?
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What is the function of dendrites in a neuron?
What is the function of dendrites in a neuron?
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Which of the following accurately describes the role of glial cells in the brain?
Which of the following accurately describes the role of glial cells in the brain?
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What is the myelin sheath's role in the nervous system?
What is the myelin sheath's role in the nervous system?
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The gaps between the myelin sheath are called:
The gaps between the myelin sheath are called:
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Which of these is NOT a way that an enriched environment can change the brain?
Which of these is NOT a way that an enriched environment can change the brain?
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an action potential?
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an action potential?
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What is the process called when neurons become specialized?
What is the process called when neurons become specialized?
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What is the primary function of neurotransmitters?
What is the primary function of neurotransmitters?
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Which of the following is the most accurate explanation for why the "left-brained" and "right-brained" concept is a myth?
Which of the following is the most accurate explanation for why the "left-brained" and "right-brained" concept is a myth?
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What is the main difference between experience-expectant plasticity and experience-dependent plasticity?
What is the main difference between experience-expectant plasticity and experience-dependent plasticity?
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What is the process that strengthens synapses between neurons?
What is the process that strengthens synapses between neurons?
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Which of the following is a common misconception about the brain's functionality?
Which of the following is a common misconception about the brain's functionality?
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Which of the following is NOT associated with shortening telomeres?
Which of the following is NOT associated with shortening telomeres?
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What is the process of coating axons with myelin called?
What is the process of coating axons with myelin called?
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What is the main function of the hippocampus in relation to memory?
What is the main function of the hippocampus in relation to memory?
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Which of the following is an example of experience-expectant plasticity?
Which of the following is an example of experience-expectant plasticity?
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Flashcards
Neurons
Neurons
Brain cells that send and receive electro-chemical messages.
Glial cells
Glial cells
Supportive brain cells that help neurons and manage nutrient flow.
Myelin Sheath
Myelin Sheath
Insulation around axons that speeds up signal transmission.
Action Potential
Action Potential
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Synapse
Synapse
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Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters
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Salutatory conduction
Salutatory conduction
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Interconnectedness of the brain
Interconnectedness of the brain
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Forebrain
Forebrain
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Four Lobes of the Brain
Four Lobes of the Brain
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Lateralization
Lateralization
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Plasticity
Plasticity
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Limbic System
Limbic System
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Long-term potentiation (LTP)
Long-term potentiation (LTP)
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Long-term depression (LTD)
Long-term depression (LTD)
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Experience-Expectant Plasticity
Experience-Expectant Plasticity
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Experience-Dependent Plasticity
Experience-Dependent Plasticity
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Neurogenesis
Neurogenesis
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Myelination
Myelination
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Synaptic consolidation
Synaptic consolidation
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Systems consolidation
Systems consolidation
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Study Notes
Learning and the Brain
- This topic outlines the relationship between learning and the brain.
- Key aspects of brain structure and function will be discussed.
- The outline covers different aspects of learning and the brain including the basic building blocks of the human brain, brain structures and function, development of the brain, and neurological bases of learning.
Qs to Consider
- Brain cells (neurons and glial cells) play crucial roles in learning.
- Explain the specific role of neurons.
- Explain why neurons are highlighted in learning processes.
- Describe the role of glial cells.
- Explain how neurons and glial cells work together.
- Explain why it's a myth that we only use 10% of our brain.
Brain Basics: Brain Cells
- Glial cells, also known as "glue" cells, are another important type of brain cell. They support neurons. The glial to neuron ratio is 9:1.
- They are responsible for guiding the development of the nervous system.
- Glial cells repair damage, control nutrient flow, and electrically insulate the neurons to speed up signal transmission.
- Myelin sheath is an example of a glial cell function.
Brain Cells (Neurons)
- Neurons transmit electrochemical messages.
- Patterns of neural firing are associated with cognitive processes like thinking, memory, and processing.
- Neurons have distinct parts: dendrites receive signals, the soma is the cell body, axons transmit signals, and myelin speeds up signal transmission; Nodes of Ranvier are gaps between myelin sheaths where signals jump.
- Synaptic terminals release chemical signals across the synapse (gap between neurons).
Neurotransmitters
- Neurotransmitters are the brain's chemical messengers.
- Neurotransmitters transmit signals between neurons.
- Different types of neurotransmitters have different functions. Examples of these neurotransmitters include Adrenaline (fight or flight), Noradrenaline (concentration), Dopamine (pleasure), Serotonin (mood),GABA (calming), Acetylcholine (learning), Glutamate (memory), and Endorphins (euphoria).
Neuron Communication
- Neurotransmitters accumulate in the synapse, triggering an action potential.
- An action potential is an all-or-none event, meaning the signal is either triggered or not triggered.
- Action potentials are equal in size. There are no small or large signals.
Qs to Consider (cont.)
- Explain why it's a myth that some people are "right-brained" while others are "left-brained."
- Describe brain specialization, including roles of lobes and hemispheres.
- Discuss the interconnectedness of the brain.
Brain Basics: Brain Parts
- The forebrain is the largest and most complex part of the brain.
- The brain has four lobes and two hemispheres.
- Subcortical features include the thalamus which relays sensory information, and the limbic system.
- The hippocampus is involved in learning and memory, spatial coding and emotional processing. The amygdala is involved in emotional processing.
The Four Lobes of the Cerebral Cortex
- The frontal lobe controls motor functions, problem-solving, and speech production.
- The parietal lobe processes touch perception, body orientation, and sensory discrimination.
- The temporal lobe processes auditory information, language comprehension, and memory.
- The occipital lobe processes visual information.
- Lobes functions are highly integrated, while each lobe is closely associated with certain functions.
- The brain is plastic.
The Hemispheres
- Each hemisphere is associated with different functions.
- The left hemisphere typically manages language, verbal memory, logic, and math.
- The right hemisphere is associated with spatial reasoning and visual memory.
- These are examples and the connections between hemispheres are complex.
The Neural Basis of Language Development:
- Language is primarily located in the left hemisphere (LH) in most adults.
- In young children, both hemispheres play a role in language abilities.
- Language activation can differ across hemispheres from early age through adulthood.
- Right brain activity changes related to language ability.
Development of the Brain
- Plasticity refers to the brain's capacity to change due to experience.
- Long-term potentiation (LTP) is a lasting enhancement of neural responsiveness.
- Long-term depression (LTD) is a lasting reduction in neural responsiveness, due to a reduction in synapse strength.
- Receptor site changes impacting neurotransmission contribute to brain development.
- Experiences, such as interaction, shape brain circuitry. Toxic stress can negatively affect healthy development.
Environment and Brain Development
- Enriched environments promote synapse growth and neuron survival.
- Cognitive stimulation is linked to cognitive development outcomes, including higher IQ and better school achievement.
- Neglect, and other forms of child maltreatment are associated with negative outcomes on brain development.
Environment can change DNA
- Chronic stressors, major depression, obesity, poor diet, and smoking can shorten telomeres, leading to accelerated aging.
Development of the Brain (continued)
- Differentiation means neuron specialization.
- Myelination is a process of coating axons with myelin for faster signal transmission.
Sensitive Periods vs. Critical Periods
- Sensitive periods are periods of maximum sensitivity in which a skill can still be learned, although less efficiently.
- Critical periods are finite periods of heightened sensitivity to external stimuli essential for developing a particular skill.
Expectant vs. Dependent Plasticity
- Expectant plasticity refers to changes that occur due to normal experiences, like exposure to visual stimuli and language.
- Dependent plasticity describes changes that depend on specific training, such as learning reading or math in a school setting or through specific activities.
Qs to Consider (final)
- How does learning about the brain help us learn more effectively?
Neurological Basis of Learning
- Neurogenesis refers to the growth of new neurons.
- Synaptic consolidation refers to the strengthening of synapses.
- Systems consolidation refers to the organization and stabilization of networks of neurons taking a longer time frame than synaptic consolidation.
- The hippocampus helps organize memories in various parts of the brain.
Consolidation (cont.)
- Hebb's Rule states that neurons that fire together, wire together. This means repeated activity between neurons strengthens the connections between them.
Brain Representation
- A single concept is represented by many neurons, not just one.
- Related concepts share connected neurons, and the activation will spread.
Brain's Role in Learning: Overview
- The brain is plastic and adapts to experiences.
- Synaptic creation and pruning are involved in brain development.
- Each brain area has specialized functions, but the brain works as a complete system.
- Experiences -expectant and -dependent - matter for brain development.
- All information in long-term memory is organized in a semantic network.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the various structures of the brain and their functions with this engaging quiz. Explore key concepts such as the role of the thalamus, neuron functions, and the myths regarding brain lateralization. Perfect for psychology students looking to deepen their understanding of brain anatomy.
