Brain-computer Interface for Improving Physical and Cognitive Performance

Dr Mahnaz Arvaneh University of Sheffield

Host F. Mushtaq

Brain-computer Interface for Improving Physical and Cognitive Performance

A brain-computer interface (BCI) provides a direct communication pathway between a human brain and an external device. Using appropriate sensors and data processing algorithms, a BCI maps patterns of brain activity associated with a volitional thought onto signals suitable for communication and control. BCI has been initially researched as an assistive technology helping people with severe motor imagery. Very recently, BCI has been introduced for improving physical and cognitive performance. For example, a BCI can be used to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the conventional neurofeedback methods by focusing on the self-regulation of individualized neuromarkers rather than generic ones in a graphically appealing training environment. This talk will provide an introduction on BCI and its potential applications for improving human performance. We particularly discuss our two recent studies on using BCI for stroke rehabilitation, as well as improving attention. Finally, we discuss a number of challenges that need to be addressed in order to be able to use BCI out of laboratory in daily basis, including the high level of noise as well as very high inter and intra session variations in the properties of brain signals.  

All seminars Wednesday at 4pm in 1.33-1,34, Psychology

for further details contact: Hannah Nash