1. PHASES OF NEURAL DEVELOPMENT IN
LEARNING
Lesson 2: Phases of Neural
Development
Thursday, 4 April 2013

2. Previous Lesson Exam Question
2012 VCAA Exam
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3. Model Response
VCAA Assessors Report 2012
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4. Outcomes (What you need to know and
be able to do)
• Explain the neural pathways involved in learning,
synapse formation, and the roles of
various neurotransmitters
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5. Why is learning important............
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6. Why is learning important............
It is crucial to SURVIVAL
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7. Donald Hebb (1946)
Theorised that when two neurons are jointly activated they
become more closely linked
ʻneurons that fire together wire togetherʼ
This creates neural pathways (neural circuits) which
are an interconnected groups of neurons organised
as a network that is active during the learning
process
Thursday, 4 April 2013

8. Zygote (single cell)
Cells multiply
They differentiate (become specialised)
Cells must form relationships with cells around
them - They form synapses in a process called
synaptogenesis
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9. Synaptogensis
Synaptogensis occurs throughout a healthy person’s lifetime
This happens rapidly from 2months before birth - 2years of age
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10. Effects of Experience on Neural Development
Genetics alone do not determine neural development
Experience plays a part in neural development
Hebb proposed that use of neurons improved their
function ‘Use it or loose it’
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11. Studies Supporting the Hebb idea
Animals reared in the dark (Cragg, 1976)
were found to have fewer synapses and
fewer dendrites in their visual cortices
Rats raised in a enriched environment
show greater synapse formation and
grater dendrite development
Kandel’s research and LTP theory
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12. What is LTP again..........
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13. What is LTP again..........
The long-lasting strengthening of synaptic connections resulting in
enhanced function of neurons along a neural pathway whenever
activated
Thursday, 4 April 2013

14. What is LTP again..........
The long-lasting strengthening of synaptic connections resulting in
enhanced function of neurons along a neural pathway whenever
activated
LTP is a crucial mechanism of learning: Learning may not be
possible without it
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15. The role of neurotransmitters in learning
NT’s involved in learning:
Glutamate: Strengthens
connections at the synapse
during learning
Dopamine: May be involved
through rewarding ‘pleasure’
experience.
Acetylcholine: Present in
some learning experiences but
specific role unclear
Thursday, 4 April 2013

16. Activity 1 - Create a poster
1. Hand draw or use a computer program to
represent the following:
- Create a flow chart to show the neural steps involved
in learning (Include the following: the creation of new
pathways, synaptogenesis, neurotransmitters)
Thursday, 4 April 2013