![Girl reading off cards.](img/m15p380b/msqu8384e_1.jpg)
Neuroscience has the potential to help us understand how the genetic predispositions of the brains of individuals (nature) can be built on through education and upbringing (nurture).
Key findings include:
- The way the brain changes and how what we do changes the brain, and
- The power of education to enhance cognition.
![Disabled boy and teacher try to
name an object.](img/m15p380b/afrank_wise_0130_2.jpg)
Current research in neuroscience is also focused on identifying the brain basis of learning difficulties, which may have implications for:
- Identification and diagnosis
- Designing interventions to overcome or circumvent learning difficulties, and
- Making education more effective.
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The expansion in genetics research over the last few decades has revealed the importance of genes in creating individual differences. It is likely that genes play a significant role in learning disabilities and that the implications of genetic research will become increasingly important in the future. A summary of current genetic research is outside the scope of this module. Some references to genetics and heredity have been made, where they are relevant to the discussion of a particular neurological condition.
![Teacher taking notes.](img/m15p380b/amilestone_0039_4.jpg)
The results of cognitive psychology have had and continue to have a huge impact on education. Although this module focuses on neuroscience, some references to cognitive psychology are made where they are relevant to the discussion of a particular neurological condition.
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Blakemore, S. and Frith, U. (2005), The Learning Brain: lessons for education, Blackwell Publishing