Sheridan Lab

Brief Description:

The goal of this research is to investigate the maturation of procedural memory in the developing human brain.  Procedural memory (skill learning or "knowing how") is a fundamental aspect of human cognition underlying many forms of learning.  We are interested in studying the development of this form of memory since: (1) procedural memory is hypothesized to be impaired in many developmental disorders including Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tourette's syndrome, dyslexia, and specific language impairment; and (2) the primary neural substrates implicated in procedural memory exhibit prolonged structural maturation, leaving open the question of how procedural memory is actualized in the developing human brain.  Our research investigates how procedural memory changes as children develop.  This is accomplished through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of children and adults performing tasks that require the use of various aspects of procedural memory.

Eligibility for Participation:

We are currently recruiting normally developing 8-18 year-olds who are native English speakers.

Participation Details

This study involves one 3-hour visit to MIT's McGovern Institute for Brain Research located at Main Street @ Albany Street in Cambridge.  There will be a practice session with a "mock" MRI scanner followed by an fMRI scanning session during which participants will play a series of games that test different aspects of procedural memory.  Compensation of $30 per hour, in the form of a gift card from one of a variety of retailers, will be provided for participation.  In addition, we provide free parking for each visit.

Research Contact:

If you are interested in participating, please email mit.developing.brains@gmail.com or call 617-324-5116!