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These resources have been reviewed and selected by STEM Learning’s team of education specialists for factual accuracy and relevance to teaching STEM subjects in UK schools.

Watching the brain at work

This activity introduces students to an exciting technique at the forefront of brain research, functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI. Researchers use this powerful imaging technique to pinpoint precisely which areas of the brain are associated with different activities.

The activity guides students in planning an investigation using fMRI and helps them to recruit and instruct volunteers for their hypothetical study.

The activity is best used to reinforce and extend understanding of the brain as a coordination centre, as well as to explore the role of technology in investigating the brain.  

Learning Outcomes

  • Students develop their understanding of the brain as a co-ordination centre.

  • Students will have explored the role of a relatively new technology – fMRI – in investigating the brain.

 

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