MIT is conducting a study of brain function in visually impaired children. Here is their announcement:
We are neuroscientists in the MIT Department of Brain and Cognitive
Sciences. We are interested in how early experiences affect how the
brain develops. Sighted children use some parts of their brain to see;
do these brain regions learn new functions in children who are blind?
We are looking for children aged 4-14 years, who are totally blind, who
would like to participate in our studies of brain development.
During the study the child will play fun games with researchers that
involve listening to stories and sounds. Some of the games will be
played while we take pictures of the child’s brain with MRI (magnetic
resonance imaging), which uses a large magnet to record brain activity.
MRI is safe for children. By imaging the brain while children listen to
stories or sounds, we hope to relate this information to brain structure
and activity.
Children who participate receive gift certificates, books, and other
small prizes. They will also get a chance to talk to scientists and
learn about their brain. We will reimburse travel expenses for the
children and their family.
To be eligible, children must be totally blind, speak English fluently,
and have no neurological or psychiatric conditions.
Visits can be scheduled at your convenience on weekends or weekdays at
our facilities on the MIT campus.
For more information please contact:
Marina Bedny
mbedny@bidmc.harvard.edu
(617) 286 2341
