Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Measuring Statistical Learning Across Modalities and Domains in School-Aged Children Via an Online Platform and Neuroimaging Techniques
Published on: June 30, 2020
Neuroscience of learning arithmetic--evidence from brain imaging studies
L Zamarian1, A Ischebeck, M Delazer
1Clinical Department of Neurology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria. laura.zamarian@uki.at
Abstract:
It is widely accepted that the human brain is remarkably adaptive not only in child development, but also during adulthood. Aim of this work is to offer an overview and a systematic analysis of neuroimaging studies on the acquisition of arithmetic expertise. In normally developing children and adults, the gain of arithmetic competence is reflected by a shift of activation from frontal brain areas to parietal areas relevant for arithmetic processing. A shift of activation is also observed within the parietal lobe from the intraparietal sulci to the left angular gyrus. Increases in angular gyrus activation with gaining of expertise have also been documented in other cognitive domains. It appears that the left angular gyrus activation is modulated by inter-individual differences in arithmetic performance. The comparison of normal individuals with exceptionally performing individuals (e.g., calculating prodigies) suggests that the experts' arithmetic proficiency relies on a more extended activation network than the network found in non-experts. In expert individuals with long-lasting, extensive mathematical training, specific structural brain modifications are also evident.
Related Concept Videos
Higher Mental Functions of Brain: Learning and Memory
Brain Imaging
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Neuroplasticity
Biological Influences on Intelligence

