Learning and Neurogenesis
Neurogenesis is the
making of new neurons. This continues throughout a person’s life.
Connections are always been added – synaptogenesis and being lost –
pruning. Active connections are strengthened and inactive
connections are lost. This strengthening and pruning is collectively
called brain plasticity. This is all done in relation to the
environment.
Research has shown that adults brains are plastic – its not just those of
babies and young children. One type of plasticity is referred to as
experience dependent plasticity – the brain changes its structure
according to the environment it is in. There are certain things such as
vision and speech sounds that have a sensitive period i.e. an optimal
stage in the development of the human where learning about these things
takes place best. However research has shown that there is no sensitive
period for such aspects as learning vocabulary or seeing colour.
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