Plasticity

• Brain plasticity refers to the brain’s ability to change and adapt as a result of experience or new learning.  
• Activities such as video games can increase brain plasticity
• Supporting evidence for brain plasticity

  P - There is research evidence to support brain plasticity. 

  E - Maguire et al. (2000) assessed hippocampal volume in London Taxi drivers (who have sat a ‘knowledge test’ compared with a matched control group)

  E - There was a significantly more volume of grey matter in the hippocampus which is associated with the development of spatial and navigational skills.

  L - This suggests that brain structure adapts with experience and therefore provides an insight into plasticity and functional recovery. 
• Contradictory evidence for brain plasticity

  P - However, there are individual differences in the ability of the brain to change and adapt. 

  E - Research from Elbert (2001) found that neural reorganisation in children is much greater in children then it is in adults.

  E - This is because in childhood, the brain is constantly adapting to new experiences. This would decrease in adults

  L - This suggests there are different factors involved in determining the plasticity of the brain