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Posted on March 22nd 2012
Psychology students learn exciting new research into brain processes
A level and GCSE Psychology students from Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich met with Farah Yakub Bsc, Msc a researcher and trainee clinical psychologist from Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London.
Farah came to give a talk about careers in psychology as well as information about her exciting new research into the brain processes involved in decision-making. Students had a quick recap of the brain structure and where characteristics are localised and lateralised.
Students were also invited to take part in the research study, which will involve them getting consent from their parents (an important ethical issue) and travelling to the cognition and imaging laboratory where they will complete a few computer tasks whilst in the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanner.
The MRI scan will take pictures of their brain activity and the results will analysed by radiographers and researchers in their important research. The students will receive a colour copy of their own brain scan, a copy of the final report when it is published next year.
Mr Steve Hickman, Head of Psychology said: “This is an exciting opportunity for young people to apply what they are learning to a real life situation and to develop a deeper understanding of the research process … plus it is pretty cool to have a picture of your own brain.”
Did you know?
The brain:
- weighs 1300 - 1400 g
- is made up of about 100 billion neurons
- Is “the most complex living structure on the universe” Society for Neuroscience
- makes us who we are.
