Brain Debate: Learning Machines: SOLD OUT

The Brain is designed to learn, but not all of us are so lightning fast as others. As we get older, the perception goes that it gets harder to take on new ideas. So, can old dogs learn new tricks? And what hope do we have for boosting our brainpower?

Find out in “Learning Machines” – a discussion brought to you by the Centre for Brain Research and Auckland Museum as part of Brain Awareness Week.

Facilitator: Russell Brown

Speakers:
Dr Johanna Montgomery - Synaptic Function Laboratory
Jo studies the mechanics of learning at the sustainable level. Every time we process a thought, brain cells connect with each other to pass on the message. Johanna looks at how this happens and how it can go wrong.

Associate Professor Ian Kirk - Human Neuroscience Laboratory
Ian is studying memory and how the brain remembers things. His work looks at where memory is stored, what genetic and environmental factors can help that, and how brain function differs between men and women.

Associate Professor Winston Byblow - Movement Neuroscience Laboratory
Winston researches how the brain plans, controls and executes movement. His work concentrates on encouraging rehabilitation to restore movement after brain injury or stroke. Underlying this is ‘plasticity’ of the brain, controlling how easy it is to learn new things.

Auckland Museum Auditorium. Entry via southern atrium.
Duration: 1.5 hours approx.

Free entry, limited seating - registration is essential. Phone 09 306 7031 to register.

Event listed by Auckland Museum

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