Could we build a true simulation model of the Human Brain?

We have discovered and invented lots of things in computing since Charles Babbage invented his Analytical Engine and Ada Lovelace started programming it. Our quest has been to mimic the human brain and its functions. There are many areas we have gone way past the abilities of the human brain – fast numerical computations, massive data analysis like in internet search, etc.

But we still dont understand how the human brain works.

Lately we have started understanding the fundamental biology, chemistry & function of the neuron (fundamental unit of the brain) much better than ever before.
         – We are able to map the complete neuron structures of small insects
         – We are able to tap into the ends of neurons, sense their signals (audio) and make them control machines (bionic hands)
         – For many decades now, we have used the “postulated” principles of the brain in Neural Networks and Genetic Algorithms. We have even attempted to replicate the human brain as a software model for Machine Vision applications.

Now that we begin to understand the “real” function of the neurons and their connections, the question is:
       – Could we build a true software model of the human brain, provide it some “sensory input” and let it freely “think”
       – Not to solve a specific application. Not to control any robots. Not
       – But just to understand how our own brains “think”

Why would we want to do this? We’ll “know better” once we actually build it.

Indian Education scene – 3 big changes in 2010

I had blogged earlier about the importance of the current “Deciding Decade” for India’s future. I’ve been looking into small ways that I can personally help in improving Education in India – been prototyping online virtual learning site with Moodle, etc.

Recently there have been 3 big education policy changes that could have far-reaching (+ve or -ve) impact going forward:
       1) Right to Education (RTE)
                  – I was initially sceptical that this is one more “right” that might not get fulfilled. But on closer look some of the provisions might have a huge impact – like 25% reservation of seats in ALL private schools, definition of standards for 1:30 teacher:student ratios and the massive sums allocated for states to implement RTE.
       2) Foreign Universities Bill
                  – This is another controversial bill that allows universities from around the world to setup campuses in India. Ex: Virginia tech setting up campus in Chennai.
       3) Common Syllabus (New in Tamil Nadu)
                  – While this is only in TN, there are rumblings about a common syllabus throughout India. This kind of change can make it easy for the country to develop a common infrastructure to train teachers, to provide online educational resources for children, etc.

While we cannot immediately tell whether these large changes will be positive or negative, one thing is clear. The education scene in India will be quite different in the coming decades.