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The Future: Matrix-Like 'Automated Learning' Machines

December 13, 2011 / can you teach me to do a back handspring?!, can you teach me to juggle?, holy smokes, i want to learn magic tricks!, knowledge, learning, learning by not looking, mri, science, that...is actually kind of cool, the matrix, the possibilities are endless

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Imagine if you could just take a nap and learn something in the process (and not just how good sleeping feels). Kind of like passing out with your head in a textbook but then NOT failing the shit out of the test the next day. Well scientists are exploring the possibility through the use of MRI machines. But not just learning boring-ass information, learning HOW TO DO THINGS. *karate chops through a stack of cinderblocks*

Here's how it works: you pick a task that requires high performance from your visual cortex, like catching a ball. Then, you go find someone who's a pro at catching a ball, stick them in an fMRI machine, and record what's going on in their brain while they visualize catching a ball. Now you've got your ball-catching program, and you're ready to learn. Next step: put yourself into the fMRI machine, and rig it to induce that pro ball-catching imagery that you recorded earlier in your brain using neurofeedback. You don't even have to be paying attention while this is going on. Your brain, though, becomes familiar with that pattern, which is what learning is: your brain becoming familiar with patterns. Play that pattern back enough, and you will get better at whatever activity the pattern is associated with.


This isn't just conjecture: the researchers involved have shown that this fMRI pattern playback can in fact "cause long-lasting improvement in tasks that require visual performance... In theory, a type of automated learning is a potential outcome.

"Pfft, I already know how to catch a ball." Yeah well that was just an EXAMPLE you idiot, besides, *bounces kickball off head* your reflexes could use some work. Chase me, I dare you! *watches you fall out of your chair* ...If you're wondering if I reprogrammed your brain with Stephen Hawking's walk, the answer's yes.

An MRI machine could teach you Kung-Fu, everything else [dvice]

Thanks to Marion, who doesn't want to learn how to do anything except pick winning lotto numbers.

There are Comments

  • I hope this shit don't run on windows...

  • Well, I don't really need one of those but I'll gladly let them scan my brain so others can learn. :)

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  • OMG all the PRON, all the time!!!

  • Thomas Ked

    Maybe you could just remember whats written in a book or so. But i dunno you could learn the ability to solve mathematical problems and so on.

  • If this technology is ever realized, it will have the power to bring everyone to same level but also create stagnation as no one will try to discover on their own how do things differently or for themselves.

  • grimbldoo

    we will stop being humans and be more like machines 

  • "I know kung fu."

    "For the last time, Mr. Reeves, no you don't."

  • Ry Keener

    Sign me up!

  • westmclarenmerc

    It will not, can not and shall not teach you how to be better in bed...unless it does ofcourse...

    I used to want to live on this planet like you, then I took an arrow in the knee.

  • I thought that saying then i took an arrow to the knee was funny for 10 seconds, then I took an arrow in the knee.

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