Can predict a child's ability to learn?

Scientists at Stanford University (USA) have developed a new method, applying brain resonance imaging to predict children's learning ability as soon as they are unable to read.

At Stanford University, expert Jason Yeatman is developing a method for teachers to be able to predict children's learning ability, Reuters reported.

'What we're working on is the ability to predict which children will learn slowly before they start to really struggle in learning. Later, we wanted to develop an intervention method aimed at the brain development of slow-learning children before they began to form behavioral symptoms , 'Yeatman explained.

US scientists study the speed of neuronal development
in the brain of children to assess their ability to learn and read

Yeatman added that it is possible to predict children's learning ability by studying the development of links in their brains. Reading books requires different parts of the brain to work together, Mr. Yeatman said.

This Stanford University expert and Professor Brain Wandell conducted a study using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to establish a brain development diagram.

However, Mr. Yeatman also acknowledged that the assessment of brain development is complex.

The team had to figure out how quickly the neurological connections needed for learning would be set up.

'We are measuring the ratio of water molecules running through the brain. And this is great because when the brain is submerged in water, the water will immediately flow inside. By observing how water diffuses in a certain area, we will know how to organize cells, their density , 'said Yeatman.

And by recognizing how neurotransmitters develop, researchers are able to know whether a child is learning slowly in the future, thereby allowing teachers to choose a method of teaching. Teach appropriately, Professor Wandell said.

Now researcher Yeatman and Professor Wandell are working on developing behavioral tests to collect the data needed for predicting learning.

Both hope, in the future, science will ensure that when the age of reading is reached, there will no longer be any children left behind by their friends for learning slowly.