Brain-computer interface users speak up: the Virtual Users' Forum at the 2013 International Brain-Computer Interface...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• The 2013 International Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) Meeting convened over 300 researchers.
• A Virtual Users' Forum was established to gather user feedback on BCI technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To collect and analyze feedback from individuals with disabilities who use Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) systems.
• To identify user-reported challenges and desired future developments in BCI technology.

Main Methods:

• Online surveys and in-person interviews were conducted with BCI users (novice and expert).
• Feedback was categorized into themes: current communication, BCI experiences, challenges, and future developments.
• Presentations from users with severe disabilities were integrated into the findings.

Main Results:

• User feedback on current BCIs mirrors concerns with conventional assistive technology.
• Key challenges identified include reliability (accuracy, speed), utility (applications, real-time interaction), ease of use (portability, setup), and support (training, technical assistance).
• Despite challenges, users maintain high hopes for future BCI capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Direct user input from people with disabilities is invaluable for BCI development.
• Participatory action research is recommended as a methodology for future BCI research to ensure user-centered design.