Title: Paying Attention to Dyslexia

Speaker: Dr. Matthew H. Schneps, Director of Laboratory for Visual Learning, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge, USA

Time: July 19 2013 (Fri) 14:00-15:00

Venue: The philosophy building, room 103

Host：Zhang Junyun

Abstract: Attention networks in the brain act to enhance salient information and inhibit irrelevant inputs, to make the most of limited neuronal circuitry. Capacities for attention naturally varies among individuals and furthermore attention can be enhanced through training. In recent years it has been shown that some learning disabilities, such as dyslexia are associated with deficits for attention. Here we will show how such deficits can exacerbate impairments in reading, but also lead to advantages important in certain careers such as science or medicine.