As part of our Science Week in November, Professor Jo-Hanna Ivers of Trinity College Dublin visited Form 5 to speak about her field of expertise: addiction. Professor Ivers spoke to the pupils about the ‘dopamine hit’ the brain gets when we carry out activities that can lead to addictive behaviour. She also emphasised the importance of limiting screen time on tablets and gaming consoles and of making time to play outside with friends, read and sing.
In addition to addiction, Professor Ivers explained to the class about her work with MRI imaging of the brain and how our brains change shape over the course of our lives.
The boys of Form 5 thoroughly enjoyed Professor Ivers’ visit and the gifts they received from her. The pupils learned a great deal about the addiction and the importance of taking time away from screens.