Neuroscience, education and special education

Introduction Both educationists and neuroscientists are interested in learning and how to optimise learning. Neuroscientists investigate the processes by which the brain learns and remembers, from the molecular and cellular levels right through to brain systems (for example, the system of neural areas and pathways underpinning our ability to estimate numerosities, calculate exact quantities and solve (or not) differential equations). Neuroscientists study learning at a variety of levels. Understanding cell signalling and synaptic mechanisms (one brain cell connects to another via a synapse) is important for understanding learning, but so is examination of the functions of specific brain structures such as the cerebellum. Brain cells (or neurons) transmit information via electrical signals, which pass from cell to cell via the synapses, tri gge ring the release of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers). There are around 100 billion neurons in the brain, each with massive connections to other neurons. Patterns of neural activity are thought to correspond to particular mental states or mental representations. Learning essentially comprises changes in connectivity: the release of neurotransmitters at the synapse can be altered, or connections between neurons can be strengthened or pruned. Successful teaching directly affects brain function by changing connectivity.