Assessing NeuroSky’s Usability to Detect Attention Levels in an Assessment Exercise

Abstract

Abstract. This paper presents the results of a usability evaluation of the NeuroSky's MindBuilder -EM (MB). Until recently most Brain Computer Interfaces (BCI) have been designed for clinical and research purposes partly due to their size and complexity. However, a new generation of consumeroriented BCI has appeared for the video game industry. The MB, a headset with a single electrode, is based on electro-encephalogram readings (EEG) capturing faint electrical signals generated by neural activity. The electrical signals across the electrode are measured to determine levels of attention and then translated into binary data. This paper presents the results of an evaluation to assess the usability of the MB by defining a model of attention to fuse attention signals with user-generated data in a Second Life assessment exercise. The results of this evaluation suggest that the MB provides accurate readings regarding attention, since there is a positive correlation between measured and selfreported attention levels. The results also suggest there are some usability and technical problems with its operation. Future research is presented consisting of the definition of a standardized reading methodology and an algorithm to level out the natural fluctuation of users' attention levels when used as inputs.

A Review on Artificial Intelligence in Special Education

“…It is a low-cost, nonclinical and easy to use tool designed for leisure. This model was tested on first-year undergraduate students in the following years and the results indicated that there is a positive relation between measured and self-reported levels of attention [7] , [8].…”

Estimating subjective assessments using a simple biosignal sensor

“…Mindset was marketed as a hobby or entertainment device, and largely overlooked for serious medical or scientific applications. Yet despite its simple specifications, the Mindset has proved effective as a SSVEPbased brain-computer interface [6], and been used to estimate stress in many studies [7], [8], [9]. It has been proven that a dry electrode has the ability to retrieve EEG power spectra extremely similar to the one acquired from a wet electrode [10], and has demonstrated potential as an interface.…”

Brain-Controlled NXT Robot: Tele-operating a Robot through Brain Electrical Activity

“…This adaptability refers to the need of the device to be trained for new users. In this case it can be worn by different users producing different outputs [1].…”

“…On the other hand, Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology is a rapidly growing field of research with various applications in modern computer games [1], prosthetics and control systems [2] through to medical diagnostics. Although research on BCI started during the 1970's only the last few years we have been able to introduce brain-computer interfacing to simple users mostly through serious games with commercial products.…”