Teenagers' brain connections make them learn differently

10th Oct 2016

New research published in Neuron journal suggests that teenagers learn differently from their experiences than adults. 

Using a probabilistic reinforcement learning task, a picture-based game, combined with fMRI scans the teens showed a higher brain activity in the hippocampus compared to adults. The hippocampus is part of the brain that plays a role in storing and sorting memories. Whereas, the adult scans showed them using the striatum part of the brain. This area is involved with planning and decision making. 

The research findings can be used to inspire new ways of teaching teenagers. By positively framing something, adolescents are more likely to remember the learning experience. Future research is being done on what other situations will activate this link between striatum and hippocampus in teenage brains.

To view the full article, please visit Neuron website