Cognitive Neuroplasticity

Recent discoveries have overturned longstanding beliefs that the neurophysiology of the brain remains relatively fixed after childhood. We will discuss new research that compares and contrasts both adult and child neural cognitive neuroplasticity. For example, it is now known that neurogenesis occurs throughout life, and that areas of the brain formally devoted to one modality can be quickly recruited for processing a second modality when circumstances require. This class will review behaviors that can lead to increased neurogenesis and changes in neural connectivity. In its first 50 years, cognitive psychology has focused on defining general limits in perception, attention, memory, and reasoning. We will discuss how experience, in some cases, allows these limits to be overcome, and in other cases cannot modify inherent cognitive restraints. In particular, we will evaluate the effectiveness of ?brain training? programs.