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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
Still image from: Behavioral Science: Development, Learning, and Memory
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
People observing what is happening inside a room with something on an operating table. Caption: to support the survival of endangered species.
55 minutes 26 seconds
Grade Level: 6 - 12
White bird with wings extended against a black background. Caption: One explanation has to do with contrast.
Brain Games Family Edition
Season 1 / Ep 7
20 minutes 39 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
Three circles divided into quadrants. Each quadrant has a letter. The circles are as follows: S-D-F-T, R-U-T-L, Y-N-B-M.  The letters S-U-N are highlighted. FRY and FUN are beneath the circles. Caption: Did you come up with any of these words?
Brain Games Family Edition
Season 1 / Ep 11
20 minutes 42 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12