U1, L6: Brain Plasticity & Specialization

Plasticity

Brain’s ability to reorganize/adapt throughout life in response to experiences, learning, & environmental changes. Brain can adapt & rewire itself to regain lost functions/learn new ones.

Split Brain Research

Studies individuals who have undergone a surgical procedure called corpus callosotomy, which disconnects the 2 hemispheres of the brain. Done as a treatment for severe epilepsy.

Contralateral Hemispheric Organization

Phenomenon where each hemisphere of the brain controls the opposite side of the body. Sensory info received by one side of the body is processed by the opposite hemisphere of the brain.

Linguistic Processing

Complex cognitive processes involved in understanding & producing language.

Broca’s Area

Located in the left hemisphere of the brain, specifically in the frontal lobe. Responsible for speech production & language processing. Plays a crucial role in the formation of grammatically correct sentences & coordination of the muscles involved in speech

Broca’s Aphasia

Language disorder caused by damage to the Broca’s area in the left hemisphere, often resulting from stroke/brain injury. Have difficulty producing fluent speech & forming grammatically correct sentences. Speech may be slow, effortful, & characterized by shortened phrases/words

Wernicke’s Area

Located in the left hemisphere, specifically in the temporal lobe. Involved in language comprehension & understanding spoken & written language. Interprets the meaning of words & sentences, allowing individuals to comprehend & process language.

Wernicke’s Aphasia

Exhibit fluent speech but have difficulty understanding spoken & written language, as well as producing meaningful & coherent speech. May use nonsensical/inappropriate words/sentences, making communication challenging.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Non-invasive neuroimaging technique used to record the electrical activity of the brain. Involves placing electrodes on the scalp to detect & measure the electrical signals produced by newtons in the brain. Commonly used to diagnose/monitor various neurological conditions.

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)

Neuroimaging technique used to measure brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow/oxygen levels. Provides detailed images of the brain structure & function, allowing researchers to observe which areas of the brain are active during specific tasks/stimuli.

Lesioning

Research technique used to study brain function by intentionally damaging/destroying specific areas of the brain in experimental animals. Can be achieved through methods such as surgical removal, chemical injection, or electrical stimulation.