lesson 3 phases of neural dvelopment

PHASES OF NEURAL DEVELOPMENT IN LEARNING

Lesson 3: Phases of Neural Development

Thursday, 21 June 2012

Revision

a) Identify and explain 5 key areas of the brain thought to be involved in learning (5 marks)


Outcomes (What you need to know and be able to do) • Explain the neural pathways involved in learning,

synapse formation, and the roles of various neurotransmitters


Why is learning important............


Why is learning important............

It is crucial to SURVIVAL


Donald Hebb (1946)

Theorised that when two neurons are jointly activated they become more closely linked

ʻneurons that fire together wire togetherʼ

This creates neural pathways (neural circuits) which are an interconnected groups of neurons organised

as a network that is active during the learning process


Zygote (single cell)

Cells multiply

They differentiate (become specialised)

Cells must form relationships with cells around them - They form synapses in a process called

synaptogenesis


Synaptogensis

Synaptogensis occurs throughout a healthy person’s lifetime

This happens rapidly from 2months before birth - 2years of age


Effects of Experience on Neural Development

Genetics alone do not determine neural development

Experience plays a part in neural development

Hebb proposed that use of neurons improved their function ‘Use it or loose it’


Studies Supporting the Hebb idea

Animals reared in the dark (Cragg, 1976) were found to have fewer synapses and fewer dendrites in their visual cortices

Rats raised in a enriched environment show greater synapse formation and grater dendrite development

Kandel’s research and LTP theory


What is LTP again..........



The long-lasting strengthening of synaptic connections resulting in enhanced function of neurons along a neural pathway whenever activated



The long-lasting strengthening of synaptic connections resulting in enhanced function of neurons along a neural pathway whenever activated

LTP is a crucial mechanism of learning: Learning may not be possible without it


The role of neurotransmitters in learning

NT’s involved in learning:Glutamate: Strengthens connections at the synapse during learning

Dopamine: May be involved through rewarding ‘pleasure’ experience.

Acetylcholine: Present in some learning experiences but specific role unclear


Activity 1 - Create a poster1. Hand draw or use a computer program to represent the following:

- Create a flow chart to show the neural steps involved in learning (Include the following: the creation of new pathways, synaptogenesis, neurotransmitters)


lesson 3 phases of neural dvelopment

Technology

neural development hebb

neural development experience

neural development genetics

learning processthursday

crucial mechanism of

use of neurons

activated ltp

enhanced function of