Maguire et al. (2000)

Question 1

Aim

Answer 1

To investigate (the use of MRI tech, or
localisation of function, neuroplasticity
linked to) spatial navigation in
London black cab taxi drivers.

Question 2

Sample

Answer 2

Sample: 16 male, right-handed, taxi
drivers (for ≥18 months) aged 32-62.

Question 3

Procedure

Answer 3

The participants brains were MRI scanned to measure the volume of grey matter in the hippocampus of
each participant. This was compared to pre-existing scans of 50 healthy,
right-handed males (the control group). Grey matter was measured using voxel-based morphemetry (VBM) which focuses on the density of grey matter and pixel counting.

Question 4

Results

Answer 4

Posterior hippocampi had more grey
matter than the controls, who had more in their anterior hippocampi.
Maguire also carried out a correlational analysis, showing a
positive correlation between volume of posterior hippocampal grey matter and length of time spent as a taxi driver.

Question 5

Conclusion

Answer 5

The posterior hippocampus
may be linked to spatial
navigation skills.
Provided evidence to the theory
of localisation of function.
Also showcases the theory of
neuroplasticity.

Question 6

Contribution (strengths) to the
theory of localisation of function

Answer 6

The researchers used MRI tech to pinpoint the key area of the brain localised to spatial navigation (posterior hippocampus).

Question 7

Contribution (weaknesses) to the
theory of localisation of function

Answer 7

Correlation is not causation, so it is impossible to know if the sample had naturally high levels of hippocampal grey matter. MRI tech is not 100% reliable: it is vulnerable to noise, temperature and operator-error.