EDU-213
L. Barnett

EDU-213 Brain Function Table

Component | Definition | Role in Learning and Development | Neurons | “A neuron is a nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system. Neurons are similar to other cells in the human body in a number of ways, but there is one key difference between neurons and other cells. Neurons are specialized to transmit information throughout the body” (Cherry, 2014) | Neurons receive and process new information. “Using selective stimulation, the researchers were able to show that these neo-neurons increase the ability to learn and memorize difficult cognitive tasks” (Role of neo-neurons in learning, memory revealed | KurzweilAI, 2012). | Neurotransmitters | “A substance (as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse” (Neurotransmitter, n.d.). | Neurotransmitters are critical in learning and memory. Neurotransmitters are important for “memory, learning, and behavior among other things” (Lahey & Rosen, n.d.). | Axon | “A usually long and single nerve-cell process that usually conducts impulses away from the cell body” (Axon, n.d.). | “Axons help neurons travel during development” (Sukel, 2015). Basically axons help neurons get to the place in the brain where development can take place. | Myelin sheath | 1. “A layer of myelin surrounding the axons of some neurons —called also medullary sheath” (Myelin sheath, n.d.). | The sheath helps with communication to the brain. “It also helps speed up the rate at which the electrical signal is passed; myelinated nerve fibers transmit much more quickly than those that are unmyelinated. The sheath plays a critical role in assuring that the nervous system performs properly” (What is the myelin sheath? (with pictures), n.d.). | Dendrites | “Any of the usually branching protoplasmic processes that conduct