Imagine if a small zap could improve your math skills! Recent scientific studies suggest that non-invasive brain stimulation, like transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), might do just that. By applying electrical noise over specific brain areas, researchers have found it can enhance learning, especially for those who struggle with solving difficult math problems. This technique may boost brain excitability, helping neurons communicate more efficiently. The result? Better math performance!
How Does It Work?
So, how does this all work? tES is a form of brain stimulation that uses low-intensity electrical currents, typically applied through electrodes placed on the scalp, to influence brain activity. Unlike more invasive techniques that require surgery, tES is safe, painless, and can target specific regions, such as those involved in math and working memory. The brain is like an electrical network, and tES helps “tune” its connections, making neurons more responsive and potentially boosting cognitive performance.
Different Forms of Electrical Brain Stimulation
There are several techniques used to stimulate the brain, each with unique benefits. tES includes various methods, but here are the most commonly used: the first one is tDCS (transcranial direct current stimulation), which uses a constant low current (1-2 mA) to modulate neuronal activity. tDCS uses either anodal (positive) or cathodal (negative) stimulation. Anodal stimulation increases neuronal excitability, making it easier to fire and enhancing processes like learning and memory. On the other hand, cathodal stimulation reduces excitability, which can be useful for decreasing excitability (i.e., overactive areas). The second technique is tACS (transcranial alternating current stimulation), which applies oscillating currents to influence brain rhythms. Lastly, tRNS (transcranial random noise stimulation), involves random electrical noise to enhance brain excitability and is particularly effective in numerical learning.
How Does It Feel?
It is not scary or painful at all! You can feel a mild tingling sensation that usually last a couple of minutes and then disappears. But it is also possible you do not feel anything at all. Sometimes the electrical stimulation has a warming effect, but most of the time the stimulation is barely noticeable.
Research continues to unravel how electrical brain stimulation can enhance learning, and the results are promising. Who knows… perhaps in the near future, these techniques play an important part in educational and cognitive practices.
Want to read more about this research? Check the following press release and the associated paper.