Feature

You really can learn while you sleep

Brain stays busy during lights-out

By Laura Sanders

- More than 2 years ago

2012 SCIENCE NEWS TOP 25: 17

You may think of sleep as a time of repose. But scientists discovered this year that, under the right circumstances, your slumbering brain can sign on for the night shift.

New research shows that the brain may multitask during sleep, learning skills and solidifying memories. PIKSEL/istockphoto

While visiting the Land of Nod, people might improve their musical abilities (SN: 7/28/12, p.