Posted: July 11th, 2024

PSYC The Brain through Visuals

PSYC The Brain through Visuals

Background

The workings of the human brain continue to fascinate scientists and students alike. The brain is the center of consciousness and both controls and facilitates our behavior. Understanding brain structure and function, the role of neurotransmitters and the process of neural transmission helps us to understand behavior at its most basic level. This introduction to the biological aspects of behavior can be the most interesting or the most frustrating of all introductory psychology topics given the amount of unfamiliar vocabulary that is involved. It is very easy to memorize the material and then quickly forget it. To combat this challenge, researchers have developed various techniques to enhance learning and retention. These methods include spaced repetition, active recall, and elaborative rehearsal. By incorporating these strategies into study routines, students can significantly improve their understanding and long-term retention of complex neurobiological concepts.

Visual cues help us to better retrieve and remember information. This makes complete sense when you consider that our brain is mainly an image processor, not a word processor. The part of the brain used to process words is quite small in comparison to the part that processes visual images. This phenomenon, known as the picture superiority effect, has been well-documented in cognitive psychology research. Studies have shown that people remember pictures with much greater accuracy and for longer periods than they do words alone. This is why infographics, diagrams, and other visual aids are so effective in educational settings. By leveraging the brain’s natural affinity for visual information, educators can create more engaging and memorable learning experiences for their students.

Assignment adapted from Dr. Lisa Dierker, Wesleyan University.

Instructions

The assignment is to create an image in landscape orientation using words and pictures. The image depicted should be based on one of your most interesting, loved, hated, usual, elusive, humorous, frightening or annoying behaviors and include at least 5 single words for the brain structures or regions, the neurotransmitters/hormones and/or details regarding the action potential or electrical patterns involved in the behavior. It should also include at least 3 pictures that represent the behavior and those that 1) help you to remember how the brain is involved and 2) increase the design or interest value of the final image. This creative approach encourages students to engage deeply with the material, fostering a more profound understanding of brain function. By connecting abstract concepts to personal experiences, learners are more likely to form lasting memories and develop a genuine interest in neuroscience. Moreover, this method promotes critical thinking and analysis skills as students must carefully consider how various brain structures and processes relate to their chosen behavior.

You may use any medium you wish (e.g., digital assets, crayons, markers, paint, or in combination). You may use stock images and photos, upload your own photos, or create your own graphic images. If the entire image is drawn or done by hand, be sure to properly scan it in high quality to the correct proportions and upload to your computer for posting. You are not being graded on your artistic ability or technical skills, though most students will likely want it to look nice. If you use software, it should be software that you use easily and often. In other words, your time should be focused on learning about the brain structures and functions involved in your chosen behavior, not fighting with, or learning new software. This flexibility in medium choice allows students to play to their strengths and express their understanding in ways that feel most natural to them. It also recognizes that different individuals have varied learning styles and preferences. By providing this freedom, the assignment encourages creativity and personal investment in the learning process, which can lead to deeper engagement with the material and more effective retention of key concepts.

If using Power Point, before you begin your image, you need to change the slide size from widescreen to standard (i.e., 11×8.5 inches). First, make sure you are in Normal view (on the View tab, click Normal). Then click the Design tab and click Slide Size in the Customize group and customize your slide size (11 wide by 8.5 high). If using Canva, choose the size before adding anything to your image. Save the image as a pdf or jpeg for posting that everyone can open and view. These technical specifications ensure that all students’ work will be presented uniformly, facilitating fair assessment and easy sharing among peers. Additionally, learning to adjust software settings and export files in specific formats develops valuable digital literacy skills that will serve students well in their future academic and professional endeavors. This attention to detail also emphasizes the importance of clear communication and presentation in scientific fields.

A 500-1,000 word essay (including references) should also be written. It should be single spaced and use the headings listed below in structured paragraphs. Give your story a title that captures your brain behavior. Include appropriate citations for the information that you present in APA format. You must use the Myers & DeWall text in addition to at least one other source. Depending on your topic, you may have several additional sources applied. Use your information literacy skills in finding reputable information on the internet and through databases. This written component complements the visual aspect of the assignment, allowing students to articulate their understanding in a more traditional academic format. The essay requirement encourages students to delve deeper into the scientific literature, honing their research and writing skills. By requiring multiple sources, the assignment promotes a comprehensive understanding of the topic and exposes students to diverse perspectives within the field of neuroscience.

Headings in your written portion should be clearly titled as:
I. Brain story title
II. Brain structure and function
III. The chemical formula
IV. References
Follow APA format with citations throughout and list full References at the end.

On the discussion post, attach the image (pdf or jpeg) and insert the essay directly into the text window. (Write it out and save on a doc – never work directly on the Canvas discussion window as it will not save until you click post!) Alternatively, you may give links to your image and doc if they are on google drive. Just be sure to allow permissions for all with the link to view. This emphasis on proper formatting and citation practices prepares students for future academic work and instills the importance of ethical scholarship. The clear organization of the essay with specific headings helps students structure their thoughts logically and ensures that all key aspects of the topic are addressed. Furthermore, the option to share work via cloud storage services introduces students to modern collaborative tools commonly used in academic and professional settings.

After everyone has posted by the due date, get on the discussion board and view all the brain visuals and read their stories. Choose any 3 classmates to respond to with comments and questions that are substantive in nature and continue to cite sources and speak to the concepts represented in the brain visual. This peer review component fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can learn from each other’s work and perspectives. Engaging in constructive dialogue about complex neuroscience concepts reinforces understanding and encourages critical thinking. It also develops important communication skills, teaching students how to provide and receive feedback professionally. This interactive aspect of the assignment mirrors the collaborative nature of scientific research and prepares students for future academic discussions and professional collaborations.

My Brain Visual Sample
My Brain Story Written Sample
Student Visual Sample
Student Written Sample

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