Earlier this month, Dr Guy Sutton, a neuroscientist from Nottingham University, visited Woodford County High School to host a ‘Brain Day’ event which students taking A Level Biology and Psychology had the opportunity to attend.
Using case studies, he illustrated fascinating psychological concepts, such as the importance of Wernicke’s area and Broca’s area to speech, the link between mental health and the brain’s physiology, and defining the self through neurology.
Students also learnt of the tragic conditions which can arise following problems during the brain’s prenatal development.
Also discussed was the intersection between neuroscience and the law; more specifically, in light of current research, to what extent can mentally damaged individuals be held responsible for their crimes?
He came equipped with fantastic models of the brain as well as a model of a neuron. A live dissection of a sheep’s brain was also carried out, guided by discussion, and gloved students were allowed to hold the brain, which was passed around.
One student described the day as “Surprisingly engaging – to a wholly unexpected extent. I wasn’t bored for a second.”
Another said, after being asked about the academic value of the event, “It was thoroughly intellectually enriching, and definitely relatable to my A Level courses” but admitted that “realising how squishy and dense the brain is was my favourite part”.
