Deep Sleep, REM and different types of memory

RosemaryB · Post by **RosemaryB** » Tue Dec 18, 2007 7:41 pm

Interesting article from the NY Times discussing some theories and research about how REM and deep sleep (stages 3 and 4) affect memory consolidation in different ways. I think you have to register (free).

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/23/healt ... wanted=all

Now, a small group of neuroscientists is arguing that at least one vital function of sleep is bound up with learning and memory. A cascade of new findings, in animals and humans, suggest that sleep plays a critical role in flagging and storing important memories, both intellectual and physical, and perhaps in seeing subtle connections that were invisible during waking — a new way to solve a math or Easter egg problem, even an unseen pattern causing stress in a marriage.

jskinner · Post by **jskinner** » Wed Dec 19, 2007 1:06 am

Interesting read. It fits in well with the book I just finished reading, REM illumination.

DreamStalker · Post by **DreamStalker** » Wed Dec 19, 2007 7:52 am

So it's not a complete failure of injecting intelligent design into the US public education system ... but rather a deterioration of quality sleep that explains declining skills and knowledge in math, science, and engineering in our country?

Nice read!