Designing a brain-computer interface platform for attention training

• Main Author: Zou, Zeren
• Other Authors: Guan Cuntai
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Computer and Information Science; BCI; EEG
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/175122
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) have revolutionized our approach to probing the intricacies of the human brain and addressing a spectrum of neurological challenges. Central to this study is the examination and enhancement of attention mechanisms within the mind. We introduce an innovative attention training program, engineered as an interactive application utilizing the Unity Engine. This program integrates Muse2, a state-of-the-art EEG device, and the Tobii Eye Tracker for user interaction, thereby enabling participants to engage in tasks tailored to refine their attention-shifting abilities. The core objective of the program is to fortify both sustained attention and the proficiency in transitioning attention, achieved through carefully designed activities that require varying degrees of attentional engagement. The effectiveness of this training regimen is evaluated through the ’Category Switch Task’ from Millisecond.com. Empirical evidence from a diverse participant pool signals a marked improvement in their ability to switch attention, substantiating the program’s utility in cognitive training. This report encapsulates the methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and empirical analysis underlying the program’s development. It also assesses the salient outcomes derived from its application and discusses the practical benefits and limitations encountered. Through this investigation, the report validates the significance of the attention training program, suggesting a promising direction for cognitive enhancement and rehabilitation using BCIs.