The nervous system has a great ability to self-organize based on its environment
This is useful information for coaches and parents to know when teaching and coaching new movement or skills
Here are 7 properties of Self-Organization in the Human Brain (Dresp-Langley, 2020)⬇️⬇️
1. Modular Connectivity
This is the structural design of interacting neural networks aimed to reduce complexity of processing information within the brain. Activity shapes the connections of the brain allowing systems to learn, develop connections, and in turn, self-organize
2. Unsupervised Learning
Also called self-reinforced learning, this principle is based on synaptic learning. Info is transmitted between neurons through the synapse. This is self-reinforcing because the more a synapse is used, the more efficient it becomes & vice versa if unused.
3. Adaptive Ability
The nervous system has the ability to solve problems and create order amongst environmental chaos. Random perturbations change the behavior of the neuron to create dynamic functional organization amongst neural networks & creates “tricks” to solve problems.
4. Functional Resiliency
The human brain is extremely robust & can continue to function efficiently even in the presence of damage. Indirect neural connections allow the brain to self-repair or self-correct after damage allowing the system to return to normal function
5. Functional Plasticity
Plasticity is the structural change within the brain & is what allows for resiliency. Neural networks can adapt to new information for learning and can also take over the role of a different system that was damaged. Synaptic changes influence structure.
6. From-Local-to-Global Functional Organization
Changes in the system start local, interacting with only close neurons. Many local interactions then cause global change amongst the network. For example, visual stimuli is received by the retina but is processed globally within the brain
7. Dynamic Functional Growth
A self-organizing system & it’s components are constantly changing. This growth is activity-dependent & reinforced through practice. Neurons look to find their niche in order to build circuitry & adapt based on their environment
Self-organizing systems like the brain have a main goal of functional self-preservation. When learning new skills, our nervous system wants to find the correct answers. It’s necessary to let kids learn and explore movement in life and in sports to self-organize on their own
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