Research

PROJECTS

foundcog

ERC foundations of cognition

THE INFANT BRAIN AND MIND

Understanding the emergence of cognition

Neuroimaging methods

Developing neuroimaging methods

METHODS

The Cusack Lab uses a diverse range of methods.

Measuring behaviour
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Measuring attention and looking behaviour is a commonly used method in infant research. By observing whether infants have more interest in one picture or sequence of pictures over another we can investigate how infants learn. In addition to our studies in the lab, the Cusack Lab measures attention and looking behaviour online via a webcam as well. This allows caregivers to participate comfortably from their homes and in their own time.

Measuring brain development

By measuring brain development, we can better understand many aspects of infants’ development and behaviour. One method to learn about the brain is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI scan is taken in a large machine that is shaped like a tunnel. We use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to look at infants’ brain development. Functional magnetic resonance imaging shows what areas of the brain are active and are communicating with each other. With this method, we are able to investigate how the brain responds to information at various moments in development. 

Assessing development
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Psychologists and physicians often assess child development by using standardised developmental scales. In our studies we often make use of these scales for a more complete picture of infants’ skills and behaviour. 

Questionnaires
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Caregivers can provide us with invaluable information through parental questionnaires. To get a better idea of how infants behave in daily life, we may for example ask caregivers about their child’s reaction to specific situations, their child’s development of motor skills or language, the sleeping and feeding patterns. In addition, we may ask caregivers to fill out a questionnaire about themselves. Whether you are invited for one or more questionnaires depends on the specific study in which you participate. 

Building theories
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With the results of our studies, we create computational models of infant learning to help us build theories of development. These theories often form the basis for the next study. 

Tracking development
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To track development changes over time, some of our studies are longitudinal. This means that caregivers are asked to participate in the same study at multiple time points. In this way, we are able to investigate the differences between different age groups in the same group of infants. Before participating in a study, you will always be informed about the procedure and whether the study is longitudinal. 

​Brainhack Ireland 2018

Thank you to everyone that came to Brainhack Ireland from May 2-4 @ Huckletree, Dublin!