The Tools of the Trade
EEG
An EEG (Electroencephalography) is a tool used to measure electrical activity in the brain. An array of electrodes worn on the scalp detects fluctuations in brain electricity over time. The EEG is often used to diagnose brain problems such as tumours and epilepsy, but can also be useful in the neuroscience of education.
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MEG
An MEG (Magnetoencephalography) measures brain activity on extremely small timescales making it useful in measuring brain activity during cognitive and perceptual tasks. MEG is a direct measure of brain function, from neuron activity, as opposed to metabolic function such as the fMRI.
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fMRI
The fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a key tool in the neuroscience of learning. It measures brain activity by detecting blood flow to the various regions in the brain. When a brain region is in use, it burns more energy and requires more blood. Therefore, hemodynamic response is increased and can be detected by the fMRI. Jump to 1:45 for a description of fMRI.
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Is Evidence Necessary?
Neuroscience and brain imaging are revealing the mechanics of the brain to educators, but often the new evidence is simply confirming ideas already gleaned from education and psychology research. Is it necessary to have exacting empirical evidence provided by neuroscience in order to have effective education? Is it enough for teachers and practitioners to just learn what works through practice and behavioural observation? Can education research continue to thrive without the contributions of cognitive neuroscience? |
Answer in the comments below.