The brain lights up when working memory is active
Theories about memory date to the 1800s. Now researchers can use fMRI technology to
actually see which parts of the brain are active when people perform various tasks and
engage with different images, words, and sounds. When a task involves working memory,
the prefrontal cortex (which focuses attention) lights up. Other parts of the brain are
also active during tasks that employ working memory. For example, if the task includes
remembering words or numbers, then there will also be activity in the left hemisphere.
If the task involves spatial relations, such as finding something on a map, then the right
hemisphere will also be active.
Perhaps the most interesting finding is that the connection between these areas
of the brain and the prefrontal cortex increases when working memory is in use. While
working memory is active, the prefrontal cortex is choosing strategies and deciding
what to pay attention to; this has a significant impact on memory.
Theories about memory date to the 1800s. Now researchers can use fMRI technology to
actually see which parts of the brain are active when people perform various tasks and
engage with different images, words, and sounds. When a task involves working memory,
the prefrontal cortex (which focuses attention) lights up. Other parts of the brain are
also active during tasks that employ working memory. For example, if the task includes
remembering words or numbers, then there will also be activity in the left hemisphere.
If the task involves spatial relations, such as finding something on a map, then the right
hemisphere will also be active.
Perhaps the most interesting finding is that the connection between these areas
of the brain and the prefrontal cortex increases when working memory is in use. While
working memory is active, the prefrontal cortex is choosing strategies and deciding
what to pay attention to; this has a significant impact on