"Digital technology has altered the neural circuitry in human brains and triggered an evolutionary process in just one generation" (Vorgan & Small, 2008).
As Michele posed the above question, my initial reaction was, "sure, of course, it must have some kind of impact". Then, as I started to consider the question more carefully, I thought of the work that has been done with functional MRIs (fMRIs) and people with dyslexia as well as the experiences of Jill Bolte Taylor (TED talk below), brain scientist who studied her own stroke and recovery - as they happened.
With dyslexic children, fMRIs have mapped the areas of the brain that are activated during the reading process (hence the functional aspect of the MRI). fMRIs have been compared pre and post intervention showing that "the brain can be rewired and that struggling children can become skilled readers" (Shaywitz, 2003).
Jill Bolte Taylor, had a stroke and was not able to walk, talk, read, write, or recall any of her life. She has written a book, My Stroke of Insight, that details her recovery, in which she learned how to utilize right brain functioning to compensate for her stroke-damaged left hemisphere. Although her recovery took 8 years, I think that it still reflects the plasticity of the brain and its receptiveness to change and ability to adapt. I also believe, based on Shaywitz's work cited above, that the younger you are, the greater brain plasticity, which is why Shaywitz is a vocal and strong proponent of early intervention for children who have dyslexia.
About this talk: Jill Bolte Taylor got a research opportunity few brain scientists would wish for: She had a massive stroke, and watched as her brain functions -- motion, speech, self-awareness -- shut down one by one. An astonishing story.
So to address the question once again, does technology change the brain? I say yes, it certainly has the potential to do so, depending on a number of factors including content, usage, and age.
The book iBrain, noted below, sounds like an interesting read, and the claim that digital technology has altered human neural circuitry in just one generation is intriguing. I would like to read more of this book, as this claim leaves me with some questions regarding the heritability of these changes, which I think was alluded to when the question was initially asked.
A start to my research:
Susan Greenfield
In Brief:
"The brain’s plasticity—its ability to change in response to stimuli from the environment—is well known. What has been less appreciated is how the expanding use of technology is shaping neural processing.
- Young people are exposed to digital stimulation for several hours every day, and many older adults are not far behind.
- Even using a computer for Web searches for just an hour a day changes the way the brain processes information. A constant barrage of e-contacts is both stimulating—sharpening certain cognitive skills—and draining, studies show."
Editorial Review - Library Journal vol. 133 iss. 15 p. 71 (c) 09/15/2008
According to Vorgan (The Memory Bible ) and Small, one of America's leading neuroscientists, digital technology has altered the neural circuitry in human brains and triggered an evolutionary process in just one generation. The authors identify the inherent problems and challenges this poses, providing a technology toolkit filled with strategies to preserve one's humanity and keep up with the latest technology. They make their case based on abundant research in the areas of health, psychology, pediatrics, education, business, and technology. Their exercises include developing face-to-face communication skills as well as mastering electronic games. A compelling as well as timely read, this is highly recommended for all libraries (from http://books.google.ca/books)
Reference
Shaywitz, S. (2003). Overcoming Dyslexia. TNew York: Alfred A. Knoff.
Reference
Shaywitz, S. (2003). Overcoming Dyslexia. TNew York: Alfred A. Knoff.
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