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Functional brain imaging: a tool to study reading and reading disability

Guinevere Eden

University of Georgetown, Washington,USA edeng@georgetown.edu

Abstract

Reading is a complex skill that plays an important role in communication and acquisition of knowledge. This presentation will describe the neurobiological basis of normal and abnormal reading and how these are visualized with brain imaging technology such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). What is the functional anatomy of typical reading acquisition and how do different regions of the brain correlated with those behavioral measures that we know to be predictive of reading outcome? I will also describe the differences that are observed in individuals with dyslexia and how these findings direct us to the best possible avenues for reading intervention. For example, phonological awareness has been shown to be impaired in individuals with dyslexia and several successful intervention approaches have used structured programs that teach individuals the concepts underlying phonological awareness. Using brain imaging, it is now possible to investigate the physiological changes that accompany behavioral improvements following successful reading intervention. The results from current studies indicate possible mechanisms of plasticity and reading acquisition in the presence of dyslexia and might be important in determining the best possible treatment approaches for children with learning disabilities.

Disclaimer: all the abstracts presented here have satisfied the academic committee as appropriate for presentation at an international conference. However, the material reflects the views of the authors, not necessarily those of the academic committee or the BDA. No endorsement of any approach, product or service is intended or implied.

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