Module Outline |
Module 5: The Brain |
Module 5 describes the structures – and the wonders – of the human brain. It begins by explaining the methods psychologists use to study the brain; case study and various brain scanning techniques are outlined. |
The module then continues by detailing the basic, more primitive, parts of the lower brain. |
The primary thinking part of the brain, the cerebral cortex, is discussed next, along with the various divisions of the brain. |
Finally, the specialization between the two hemispheres, including the major areas for speech and language, is covered. |
Studying The Brain | |
Case study | |
Phineas Gage | |
Scanning techniques | |
Brain structure | |
Computerized axial tomography (CT or CAT) scan | |
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) | |
Brain function | |
Electroencephalogram (EEG) | |
Positron emission tomography (PET) scan | |
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) | |
Lower-Level Brain Structures | |
Brainstem | |
Medulla | |
Reticular formation | |
Thalamus | |
Cerebellum | |
Limbic system | |
Hypothalamus | |
Hippocampus | |
Amygdala | |
The Cerebral Cortex | |
Cerebral cortex | |
Longitudinal fissure | |
Corpus callosum | |
Frontal lobes | |
Parietal lobes | |
Association areas | |
Occipital lobes | |
Temporal lobes | |
Motor cortex | |
Somatosensory cortex | |
Brain Plasticity | |
Plasticity | |
Differences Between the Brain’s Two Hemispheres | |
Left hemisphere | |
Broca’s area | |
Expressive language | |
Wernicke’s area | |
Receptive language | |
Right hemisphere | |
Spatial abilities | |
Split brain |