BIOLOGICAL draganski et al

researchers name(s)

draganski et al

year

2004

aim of study

to investigate whether learning a new skill (juggling) leads to structural changes in the brain, specifically in gray matter volume

topic

localisation

neuroplasticity

research method

lab

participants

24 volunteers (21 females, 3 males) with no prior juggling experience

procedure

• Participants were divided into two groups: jugglers and non-jugglers (control group).

• Jugglers were taught a three-ball juggling routine and practiced for three months.

• Brain scans (MRI) were taken before learning, after three months of practice, and after three months without practicing.

• Control group did not practice juggling but had their brains scanned at the same intervals.

• Changes in gray matter in the brain were analyzed and compared between groups.

findings

• Jugglers showed increased gray matter in the mid-temporal area and the left posterior intraparietal sulcus after practicing.

• gray matter volume decreased after they stopped practicing for three months.

• Learning and practicing a new skill can induce temporary structural changes in the brain.