Miami University-Nu Rho Psi

We made a Brain Trivia Wheel that drew in a number of participants in to learn about the brain. In the student center, we organized a number of interactive and educational activities. Visitors sampled “miracle berries” and experienced how changes in taste buds can alter the perception of sour to that of sweet. Vision impairment goggles allowed users to gain insight into the difficulties that people with macular degeneration, glaucoma, etc experience when trying to manipulate small objects and judge distances. A Backyard Brains “muscle spiker box” allowed individuals to learn about the signaling that controls movements and initiates and maintains muscle contractions. Also from Backyard Brains, a “human-human interface” enabled one individual to use their muscle activity to control the movements of another individual’s hand. This demonstration provided insight into the technological advances in functional electrical stimulation returning function to those suffering from amputations, or from disorders resulting in muscle weakness for instance. Along with these activities, there were brain models, posters, and handouts, and fun items such as brain erasers from the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives, all serving to educate visitors about Nervous System function and dysfunction. Undergraduate students presented their research posters to other students, faculty and invited speaker, Dr. Timothy Vogel, MD. Then a public lecture by Dr. Vogel capped off the Brain Awareness Activities. Dr. Vogel discussed his research and treatment approaches for pediatric hydrocephalus. After the seminar, Dr. Vogel opened the discussion to questions and all enjoyed a lively discussion about career paths in medicine and research.

The ability to get others excited about the nervous system. Immediate outcomes include indications that people learned new things about the brain.