Educational Media Reviews Online

Dr. Diamond's groundbreaking research at the University of California at Berkeley was in the area of rat brain anatomy. Her experiments showed that rats subjected to an "enriched environment" developed positive changes in brain anatomy; whereas rats, exposed to "an impoverished environment" did not develop these positive changes in their cerebral cortexes. In their enriched environment, the rats were given a large cage, companions, and interesting exercise toys to play with. There also seems to be evidence, based on a study of Minnesota Nuns, that humans benefit from a similar "enriched environment" full of intellectual challenges.

Besides reflecting on her life as an early female pioneer in anatomical research, Dr. Diamond also offers some practical advice to the elderly on diet, exercise, and mental conditioning.

While much of the video was a conventional "talking head" interview with Dr. Diamond, visual variety was achieved by juxtaposing biographical material, and colorful graphics, within the interview segments. Graphics, primarily stills, were used to illustrate Marian Diamond's descriptions of brain cells and cerebral functions. Pacing was excellent and the video seemed short, usually a good sign of solid, thoughtful, construction. Music was only occasionally used, and sound quality was excellent. Technical terms are kept to a minimum and the content seems aimed at an elementary college or general audience.

"Use it or lose it" says Marian Diamond about the brain. If you continue to challenge yourself intellectually, do moderate exercise, and eat sensibly, you can lead an intellectually productive life well into old age. Surely, Dr. Diamond is the best living example of her credo. This interesting and informative video is recommended for introductory college psychology, anatomy, women's studies, and gerontological classes, as well as senior seminars.