Reaction Time & Hemispheric Asymmetry Dissertation

Reaction Time & Hemispheric Asymmetry - Dissertation Example The tests failed to demonstrate a clear association with hemispheric aptitude in terms of reaction speed based on results of previous investigations in the literature. Introduction The two halves of the human brain are responsible for different perceptions and styles of information processing. Handedness as a functional preference begins with an entire half of the brain, one of which is personally dominant, and it is that dominant half that is used to process much information. Nonetheless, cognitive functions are enhanced when both sides of the brain learn to get along cooperatively, sharing capabilities in a balanced fashion. To optimize this sharing for the benefit of performance, there should always be room for strengthening whichever a person's weaker hemisphere happens to be. The left brain functions in a sequential, linear manner. It is an organizing, rank-making, list-maker. Left-brained individuals enjoy orderly planning, schedule-creation, and structured organization. Left-b rains finish tasks in sequence and enjoy the regularity that this regimented approach allows. And thus, learning in sequence can be easier for these individuals. Functions such as spelling are probably easier for left-brains. A sequential approach to mathematical calculations and stepwise directions are ideal conditions for this learner. This left hemisphere is also vital for many forms of communication. Aphasia can result from trauma, tumors or stroke-damage to the left hemisphere. Certain complex mouth-movements may be affected also. It is clear that language processing as well as spatial intelligence, and subtle movements involving hand-gestures are dependent on the left hemisphere. (Toga et al. 2003) In seeming opposition is the approach of the right-brained thinker. More haphazard and spontaneous. The right-brained thinker may drift through different modes and styles of thought. They may lack the regimented prioritization of the left-brained operator when they do complete the w ork they have set themselves towards. They may not accomplish less, but in a less direct fashion. A task may be delayed not because the right-brained wasn't applying themselves, but that they were applying themselves to many different priorities. Excessive regimentation provokes feelings of restlessness or rebellion. But schedules and order are still useful, and are perhaps more essential for this thinker. Editing, error-correction and spell-checking will be more important for this learner. Colors and images may be useful to this thinker as an organizational tool, as vivid depictions will be impactful for a right-dominant mind. Mnemonic devices should be the most beneficial for this thinker. In addition, the right cerebral hemisphere specializes in spatial perception and topographical comprehension, and men score higher than women when the input is restricted to the right hemisphere, or conversely, obtain significantly lower scores than women on such tasks after damage to this hemis phere. The left hemisphere specializes in language, and trauma here leads to aphasia, linguistic impairment in speaking, comprehending, or both. The fact that women score lower than men in right hemi-sphere tasks was for years explained in terms of the crowding out effect, a concept referring to the left hemis