Choose two aspects of brain development that were of most interest to you.
• Describe these aspects of brain development and explain why you found them
interesting/important.
For many years, scientists believed that brain development was strictly controlled by
“nature” (genetics, biological development). According to the neuroconstructivist view,
we now know that development of the brain is significantly influenced by nurture
(experience). The ability of experience to change the structure and/or activity of the
developing brain is known as “neuroplasticity.”
• Give two examples of how experience can impact brain development in an
adverse way.
• Give two examples of how experience can impact brain development in a
positive way.
• How can the concept of neuroplasticity be practically applied to furthering
positive brain and behavioral outcomes? Support your view with a scholarly
research article that demonstrates how experience can change the
brain/behavior for the better. Post the link to the article for your classmates to
review. Briefly summarize the key findings of the article.
