What are you doing when you're studying or working? Maybe a song, a show, or complete silence? Some types of music may help or hinder our learning. There could be a better way.
A review of past research shows that noise can help the brain learn.
How do I know? Random noise helps the brain form new paths and connections by increasing its ability to take on new information.
The technique we're talking about is called transcranial random noise stimulation, or tRNS.
tRNS uses weak electrical currents to pass through parts of the brain that are not connected to the rest of the body.
The effect on learning is promising according to Onno van der Groen. People with neurological conditions can be helped by it.
People with learning difficulties can use it to improve their learning rate. It's been tested on people with visual deficits after strokes and traumatic brain injuries.
The paper summarizes a lot of previous studies on tRNS. Adding brain stimulation can help with learning and attention after treatment.
tRNS can have two effects: an acute effect where learning is enhanced while tRNS is used, and a longer-term effect where cognitive performance can be improved in the future even after tRNS has stopped being used.
According to the researchers, studies show that tRNS can boost visual perception, help us to learn new information more efficiently, and improve our ability to focus. In areas where the brain may be damaged, that's useful.
The review states that tRNS isn't a tool that works in all situations and that it can't keep leveling up our brains indefinitely.
The brain does not seem to be affected by the application of electrical noise.
There is a case study where they tried to improve the mathematical skills of a mathematician. It didn't have much of an effect on his performance because he is already a top performer in that area.
If you're learning a new thing, it could be used.
The mechanisms at play in the brain during tRNS are not clear.
It's thought that the noise might help certain neurons to stay in sync better, or that it might affect levels of a key neurotransmitter.
Some of the time in some people, random noise stimulation can have a positive effect on learning. There is a lot of potential for future research.
tRNS doesn't require a complicated laboratory setup to operate. In the future, it may be possible to make kits that people can use themselves.
It may replace the soundtrack to your workday.
Van der Groen says the concept is easy to understand. The current runs from plus to minus, but it goes through your head.
We are working on a study where we send equipment to people and they use it on their own. It's simple to use.
The research was published in neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews.
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