The Science of Learning with Heather Berlin

About This Episode

How do our brains learn? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-host David Bakker and Chuck Nice learn about learning at the Pocketlab Science Is Cool Virtual Unconference with neuroscientist Heather Berlin, PhD.

What happens to our brains when we learn something new? Learn about the changes in the brain and how it creates pathways to help us learn. How do some people seem to learn faster than others? Discover how emotions and neurochemicals play their part in learning and developing memories. How do dopamine and serotonin help us remember? We ask, does humor help you learn?

What’s the difference between learning and creating? How do people think of things that have never been thought of before? What is creativity? We discuss the definition of genius, rules of calculus, and if there is a best way for our brains to receive information. Are there different types of learners? What does neuroscience say on the matter? We break down experiential learning and the effectiveness of science museums. Can Neil guess your favorite exhibit?

How has the pandemic affected students’ learning? What does remote learning do differently for our brains? Can technology help us? Can you use video games to teach effectively? How does being active help us learn? We debate nature versus nurture and the ethics of IQ tests… Is Neil going to disclose his IQ score? Find out, on another episode of StarTalk!

Thanks to our Patrons Steve Vera, Mike Ness, Stephan Greenway, Jovanni Mendoza, Luke Cadman, Shenaye Dawson, Mathew Green, Angelo Dower, Zachary Zahn, Brandon Diamond for supporting us this week.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.

About the prints that flank Neil in this video:

“Black Swan” & “White Swan” limited edition serigraph prints by Coast Salish artist Jane Kwatleematt Marston. For more information about this artist and her work, visit Inuit Gallery of Vancouver.