Title: Unveiling the Wonders of Neuroscience with GSU’s Neuroscience Lending Library
At Georgia State University’s Center for Behavioral Neuroscience (CBN), students don’t just learn about science – they experience it firsthand. Through the Neuroscience Lending Library, K-12 students in Atlanta have the opportunity to interact with real human brains, delve into intricate 3D models of the nervous system, and explore the fascinating world of neuroscience.
The Neuroscience Lending Library was established through a partnership between CBN, the Atlanta chapter of the Society for Neuroscience, and Emory University. Following the passing of longtime CBN investigator and outreach advocate Larry Young, the collection of brain specimens was expanded and integrated into the educational resources available for educators. Today, the library boasts a diverse range of brain specimens, including human, primate, dolphin, rodent, horse, and sheep brains, as well as detailed anatomical models and interactive learning tools.
The impact of the library is profound, as it allows students to see neuroscience come to life in a way that textbooks cannot replicate. Jennifer Walcott, project coordinator at CBN, notes that students are both fascinated and amazed when they realize that every thought, feeling, and memory originates from an organ like the brain.
The benefits of the Neuroscience Lending Library extend beyond science classrooms. Sarah Yoo, STEAM coach at Herman J. Russell West End Academy, arranged for her seventh-grade students to participate in an interactive session after hearing about the program from her daughter. The students, who had been studying Phineas Gage, were able to engage with brain specimens from the library, bringing their lessons to life in a tangible way.
The outreach efforts of the program also reach students at STEM nights, career days, and local events, where volunteers from undergraduates to faculty neuroscientists discuss the relevance of neuroscience in various fields. David Waxler, a senior lecturer at GSU, emphasizes the importance of understanding the brain in fields ranging from psychology to marketing.
Through the Neuroscience Lending Library, CBN is inspiring the next generation of neuroscientists, sparking curiosity and passion for the brain and its intricacies. The library serves as a valuable resource for educators and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of neuroscience and its impact on our lives.
In conclusion, the Neuroscience Lending Library at Georgia State University’s Center for Behavioral Neuroscience is a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for students of all ages. By providing hands-on experiences with brain specimens and interactive learning tools, the library brings the wonders of neuroscience to life. Through engaging outreach efforts and educational programs, CBN is shaping the future of neuroscience and encouraging a new generation of curious minds to explore the complexities of the brain. Join us in unraveling the mysteries of the mind and discovering the endless possibilities that neuroscience has to offer.
