The University of Washington established the Institute in 2003 to conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research on human learning. Scientists working at the Institute, in collaboration with others around the world, are exploring five major research themes.

• Milestones of Learning and Development
• Brain Plasticity and Mechanisms of Developmental Change
• Links Connecting Brain and Behavior
• Nature and Nurture
• Computer Learning vs. Biological Learning

Milestones of Learning and Development

Institute scientists are exploring the basic principles of human learning and development. Topics include cognitive, linguistic, personality, and social-emotional growth. Researchers focus on identifying crucial behavioral milestones and how they are influenced by the environment and culture.

Brain Plasticity and Mechanisms of Developmental Change

Scientists have discovered that learning is not equivalent over the lifespan. In many domains, young children learn more quickly and efficiently than adults, demonstrating 'windows of opportunity' for learning. Institute researchers are investigating the brain mechanisms that underlie the opening and closing of windows of opportunity for learning. Increased knowledge about neural plasticity and mechanisms of change has profound long-range implications for maximizing human potential and lifelong learning (e.g., acquiring a second language, the development of social understanding and empathy).

Links Connecting Brain and Behavior

A fundamental goal in neuroscience is to link mind and brain, connecting changes in behavior with changes in the brain. State-of-the-art brain mapping technologies allow noninvasive measures to be made across the lifespan. Both brain and behavior are measured and compared in the same individuals across time. This research will expand the frontiers of knowledge by discovering how people learn and the brain basis of thinking, language, and caring about others.

Nature and Nurture

Institute scientists study the intricate interweaving of nature and nurture in human development. Modern advances in genetics, behavioral, and brain sciences will allow us to address this in new ways. A critical question for society is whether the abilities shown by infants and young children predict their future outcomes. Institute scientists will investigate continuity and predictability between early and later life.

Computer Learning vs. Biological Learning

Humans are exquisite learning machines. Our brains are wired to learn through interaction with the world, re-programming themselves over time. Computers, on the other hand, do not readily learn by experience. This opens an exciting interface between computer and child learning. Institute scientists use models of human learning to design machines that learn more efficiently. Conversely, artificial intelligence is used to illuminate human learning.