Brain Imaging Studies of Reading and Reading Disability

Lecture Description

This presentation will show how brain-imaging technology has been used to reveal brain areas that are involved in reading, how these differ in reading disability (developmental dyslexia) and the neural correlates of successful reading intervention. Further, brain imaging can play an important role in testing different theoretical frameworks that have been put forward to explain the etiology of dyslexia.  This presentation will highlight the importance of distinguishing between cause and consequence of dyslexia. Together, the answers to these questions are critical in understanding the etiology of this common learning disability.

Learning Objectives

As a result of attending this lecture, participants will learn and demonstrate the following knowledge:

1. State which brain regions are involved in skilled word reading and how these relate to skills measured during psycho-educational evaluation
2. The definition of developmental dyslexia
3. Explain the brain-based differences researchers have identified in dyslexia and the neural correlates of successful reading intervention in dyslexia
4. The association between reading and arithmetic

Time Ordered Agenda

3:15 - 3:30   Sign in and Registration
3:30 - 3:40   Disclosures and Background Information
3:50 - 4:00   Brain regions involved in skilled word reading
4:00 - 4:10   Brain imaging as a way to address different theoretical frameworks that
                    explain the etiology of dyslexia
4:10 - 4:20   The association between reading and arithmetic
4:20 - 4:30   Conclusions
4:30 - 4:45   Q & A from the audience
 

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Biographical Sketch

Dr. Eden received her B.S. from University College London, and her Ph.D. from the University of Oxford.  Her research has been supported by the National Institutes of Health, and the National Science Foundation.  Dr. Eden is a full professor at Georgetown University medical center, serving as the Director of the Center for the Study of Learning.  She is past-president of the International Dyslexia Association, and has also served as Scientific Co-Director for the National Science Foundation funded "Science of Learning Center" at Gallaudet University.