Research has found that frontal-midline theta neurofeedback can teach individuals to control this type of brain activity. This self-brain regulation can lead to better executive functions, which are skills that help us plan, focus, and handle multiple tasks. [1] [2] [3] As part of the TULIP study, we are aiming to improve this training by adding a neurofeedback companion, with the aim that participants can derive the greatest possible benefit from the training.
The neurofeedback companion will accompany and guide participants while they are doing neurofeedback. But what is a neurofeedback companion?
The neurofeedback companion is like a personal coach that stays with the participant during the neurofeedback training sessions. This neurofeedback companion is specifically designed to monitor how participants self-regulate their brain activity during neurofeedback. It helps the participant learn how to control their brain activity better, gives tips and encouragement during the breaks, and keeps track of how the participant is doing over time. Think of it as a helpful buddy who makes sure the neurofeedback participant is getting the most out of the neurofeedback sessions.
The project consists of two parts. We are first distributing a questionnaire to gather the public's opinions regarding the most suitable design for a neurofeedback companion that inspires trustworthiness. After we have collected the information we will proceed with the second part, the neurofeedback training.
The project is being carried out in collaboration with the INCIA, a Bordeaux-based research institute that pioneered the use of a neurofeedback companion designed to improve brain-computer interface (BCI) user training. [4]
The neurofeedback companion will accompany and guide participants while they are doing neurofeedback. But what is a neurofeedback companion?
The neurofeedback companion is like a personal coach that stays with the participant during the neurofeedback training sessions. This neurofeedback companion is specifically designed to monitor how participants self-regulate their brain activity during neurofeedback. It helps the participant learn how to control their brain activity better, gives tips and encouragement during the breaks, and keeps track of how the participant is doing over time. Think of it as a helpful buddy who makes sure the neurofeedback participant is getting the most out of the neurofeedback sessions.
The project consists of two parts. We are first distributing a questionnaire to gather the public's opinions regarding the most suitable design for a neurofeedback companion that inspires trustworthiness. After we have collected the information we will proceed with the second part, the neurofeedback training.
The project is being carried out in collaboration with the INCIA, a Bordeaux-based research institute that pioneered the use of a neurofeedback companion designed to improve brain-computer interface (BCI) user training. [4]
First Part: Questionnaire regarding Design of the Neurofeedback Companion
The questionnaire utilizes the principle of "Citizen Science", the process of conducting research with the help of the general population. This ensures that the neurofeedback companion is being developed in collaboration with the audience it is intended to help, therefore facilitating an optimal learning outcome.
To participate in the questionnaire and help us create a neurofeedback companion that you consider suitable and trustworthy click on the button below! The questionnaire is currently only available in English, but soon also in Dutch, German, Spanish and Catalan. Second Part: The Neurofeedback Training with a Neurofeedback companionIn the second part we will further develop the neurofeedback companion prototype and test the combination of Neurofeedback with a neurofeedback companion. Information on this will be updated soon.
|
[1] Smit, D., Dapor, C., Koerts, J., Tucha, O., Huster, R. J., & Enriquez‐Geppert, S. (2023). Long-term improvements in executive functions after frontal-midline theta neurofeedback in a (sub)clinical group. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 17. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2023.1163380
[2] Brandmeyer, T., & Delorme, A. (2020b). Closed-Loop Frontal MidlineΘ Neurofeedback: A Novel approach for training Focused- Attention Meditation. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2020.00246
[3] For more studies look at the page "Scientific Articles" under FM theta neurofeedback to improve EF.
[4] Pillette, L., Jeunet, C., Mansencal, B., Nkambou, R., N’Kaoua, B., & Lotte, F. (2020). A physical learning companion for Mental- Imagery BCI User Training. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 136, 102380. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2019.102380
[2] Brandmeyer, T., & Delorme, A. (2020b). Closed-Loop Frontal MidlineΘ Neurofeedback: A Novel approach for training Focused- Attention Meditation. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2020.00246
[3] For more studies look at the page "Scientific Articles" under FM theta neurofeedback to improve EF.
[4] Pillette, L., Jeunet, C., Mansencal, B., Nkambou, R., N’Kaoua, B., & Lotte, F. (2020). A physical learning companion for Mental- Imagery BCI User Training. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 136, 102380. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2019.102380