Recommendations for Developing an EEG Laboratory at a Primarily Undergraduate Institution

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neuroscience Education

Background:

• Electroencephalography (EEG) is a cost-effective and space-efficient technique for cognitive neuroscience.
• Primarily Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) often face resource limitations hindering EEG lab implementation.
• Bridging the gap in resources is crucial for advancing neuroscience research and education at PUIs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide practical guidelines for establishing EEG laboratories at PUIs.
• To address feasibility concerns regarding infrastructure, equipment, personnel, and funding.
• To encourage the integration of EEG methods into PUI research and curricula.

Main Methods:

• The article offers recommendations for setting up an EEG lab with a focus on feasibility.
• Considerations include infrastructure, equipment acquisition, staffing, and funding strategies.
• A case study details the successful development of an EEG/ERP lab at Baldwin Wallace University.

Main Results:

• The guidelines presented emphasize practical and achievable steps for PUI EEG lab development.
• The case study demonstrates the successful implementation and growth of an EEG/ERP facility.
• Diverse options are provided for both new and existing EEG lab initiatives.

Conclusions:

• Implementing an EEG lab at a PUI is a feasible endeavor with careful planning.
• Such labs significantly enhance undergraduate access to interdisciplinary neuroscience research.
• Establishing EEG facilities at PUIs enriches educational opportunities and fosters research engagement.