Brain Plasticity and Neurogenesis

Since the 1990s, principles of brain plasticity have emerged. Neuroplasticity describes the brain's ability to adopt new functions, reorganize itself, and make new neural connections as a function of experience. Research has shown that almost every major structure of the neuron is capable of change based on experience; however, not all regions of the brain are equally plastic. Brain plasticity gradually decreases with age which explains why it is easier for children to learn to speak a language than adults.

Nature vs. Nurture Consideration: The argument for life-long learning – throughout life, the brain can adopt new functions, reorganize itself, or make new neural connections as a function of experience. Neurogenesis is the process of developing new neurons. The growth and formation of new dendrites is known as aborization. Both contribute to synaptogenesis, the formation of entirely new synapses or connections with other neurons that is the basis of learning.

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