10. Split-brain Research Into Hemispheric Lateralisation AO3

Question 1

Name two strengths of split brain research

Answer 1

1. Sperry’s methodology

2. His work started a debate about the nature of the brain

Question 2

Why is Sperry’s methodology a strength

Answer 2

Carefully standardised procedure of presenting visual information to one hemispheric field at a time - quite ingenious

Question 3

Outline Sperry’s methodology

Answer 3

Participants stared at a fixed point with one eye - image flashed up for 0.1s - patient had no time to move eyes over image and spread over both visual fields or sides of brain

Question 4

What was so good about Sperry’s methodology

Answer 4

Allowed him to vary the aspects of procedure- ensured only one hemisphere received information at a time - very useful - very well controlled

Question 5

Explain how Sperry’s work started a debate about the nature of the brain

Answer 5

Triggered a theoretical and philosophical debate - about nature of consciousness - and degree of communication between hemispheres in everyday functioning.

Question 6

Name a weakness of split brain research

Answer 6

Issues with generalisations in relation to Sperry’s work

Question 7

Why might there be issues with generalisations in relation to Sperry’s work

Answer 7

Many researchers said findings can’t be widely accepted - split brain patients are unusual samples of people

Question 8

What can be concluded about Sperry’s research about generalisations

Answer 8

Limits extent that findings can be generalised to normal brains - reduces validity of conclusions

Question 9

Outline Sperry’s participants

Answer 9

11 patients with a history of seizures

Question 10

What is an issue with Sperry’s participants

Answer 10

May have caused unique changes in the brain - influencing findings