Schedule Overview
Keynote: Research that Improves Lives: Harnessing the Power of Neuroplasticity to Improve Language Function for Survivors of Stroke and Brain Injury
Presentation Type
Presentation
Abstract / Artist's Statement
Scientists across a number of disciplines seek to better understand the relationship between brain structure and function, and human behavior. They investigate complex questions by examining the molecular and cellular levels, applying neuroimaging techniques, and conducting behavioral research. By bringing together these approaches as neuroscientists, we are beginning to understand how we can influence our own brain’s plasticity to maximize learning, modify existing behaviors, and rehabilitate injured brains. As a behavioral scientist and brain injury rehabilitation specialist, I have spent this early part of my academic and research career exploring my fascination of the relationship between brain function and the human’s ability to communicate using complex language. Undergraduate study of linguistics and cognitive science inspired me to ask questions about what happens when a complex cognitive system like language goes awry – leading to my ultimate commitment to the field of speech and hearing sciences and rehabilitation medicine. My current research is designed to better understand how principles of neuroplasticity that have been brought to light through motor learning research can be applied to improve language function following brain injury. I am manipulating treatment variables such as the intensity with which we deliver treatment, and the dosage, or number of trials per session, to optimize rehabilitation outcomes. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to complement medical interventions with focused, deliberate, and effective behavioral treatment approaches to improve the lives of those recovering from stroke or brain injury.
Keynote: Research that Improves Lives: Harnessing the Power of Neuroplasticity to Improve Language Function for Survivors of Stroke and Brain Injury
UC Theater
Scientists across a number of disciplines seek to better understand the relationship between brain structure and function, and human behavior. They investigate complex questions by examining the molecular and cellular levels, applying neuroimaging techniques, and conducting behavioral research. By bringing together these approaches as neuroscientists, we are beginning to understand how we can influence our own brain’s plasticity to maximize learning, modify existing behaviors, and rehabilitate injured brains. As a behavioral scientist and brain injury rehabilitation specialist, I have spent this early part of my academic and research career exploring my fascination of the relationship between brain function and the human’s ability to communicate using complex language. Undergraduate study of linguistics and cognitive science inspired me to ask questions about what happens when a complex cognitive system like language goes awry – leading to my ultimate commitment to the field of speech and hearing sciences and rehabilitation medicine. My current research is designed to better understand how principles of neuroplasticity that have been brought to light through motor learning research can be applied to improve language function following brain injury. I am manipulating treatment variables such as the intensity with which we deliver treatment, and the dosage, or number of trials per session, to optimize rehabilitation outcomes. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to complement medical interventions with focused, deliberate, and effective behavioral treatment approaches to improve the lives of those recovering from stroke or brain injury.