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The Brain: The First Computer

13 minutes 8 seconds

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Computer image displaying a cross section of the human head with a path through the brain highlighted in red. Caption: The whole journey from one neuron to another

The human brain is often compared to a computer, but this three-pound organ is far more complex, powerful, and capable than the most advanced computer. Everything we do, are, think, and feel begins with the brain. Defines the parts and functions of a brain cell, explores how the brain works, and mentions brain chemicals.

Media Details

Runtime: 13 minutes 8 seconds

Lab equipment in background with illustration of connected neurons. Caption: glia activate and help fix the neurons
#askMIT
Episode 1
2 minutes 56 seconds
Grade Level: 8 - 12
Shirtless muscular man flexing his bicep. Caption: When the muscle fibers fire and contract,
27 minutes 11 seconds
Grade Level: 6 - 10
A woman. Caption: So we found a way to control prosthetic limbs.
Ask a Scientist
Episode 19
1 minutes 2 seconds
Grade Level: 10 - 12
A diagram of a lock in the backdrop of a neuron. Caption: So, a  neuroethicist looks at the privacy implications.
Ask a Scientist
Episode 21
51 seconds
Grade Level: 10 - 12
illustration depicts a close knitted structure of the nerves. Caption: are now hardwired in because we use them so often.
Ask a Scientist
Episode 14
1 minutes 51 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
Digital illustration of the lateral view of the brain. Text on image reads, "Working Memory." "Cognitive System with Limited Capacity." "Transient Holding Processing and Manipulation of Information."
Behavioral Science
Episode 4
30 minutes 55 seconds
Grade Level: 10 - 12
Bill Nye holding an infant. Caption: You, she, and I have the same number of brain cells
Bill Nye The Science Guy
Season 2 / Ep 14
23 minutes 3 seconds
Grade Level: 5 - 9
A teenager wearing a beanie with skull and crossbones and a hoodie with a skull, sitting at a desk and writing on a piece of paper. Caption: he couldn't read or write.
24 minutes 21 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
ASL
Still image from: Crash Course Biology: The Nervous System
Crash Course Biology
Season 0 / Ep 126
11 minutes 37 seconds
Grade Level: 9 - 12
Illustration of neurons and dendrites exchanging signals. Caption: The addicted brain has changed.
24 minutes 5 seconds
Grade Level: 10 - 12