Embodiment Is Related to Better Performance on a Brain-Computer Interface in Immersive Virtual Reality: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Rehabilitation Technology

Background:

• Electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are used in motor rehabilitation to provide sensory feedback.
• Various display technologies, from immersive head-mounted display virtual reality (HMD-VR) to standard computer screens, are employed for BCI neurofeedback.
• The impact of display immersion on BCI performance and individual differences remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare neurofeedback performance between HMD-VR and computer screen displays in healthy individuals.
• To investigate the relationship between individual differences (presence and embodiment) and neurofeedback performance in different display environments.
• To assess if HMD-VR enhances embodiment compared to screen-based feedback.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 12 healthy participants.
• Comparison of neurofeedback performance using EEG-based BCIs in HMD-VR versus a computer screen.
• Assessment of individual differences in presence and embodiment and their correlation with BCI performance.

Main Results:

• Participant performance on the BCI was comparable across HMD-VR and computer screen conditions.
• Significantly higher levels of embodiment were reported in the HMD-VR condition compared to the computer screen.
• Embodiment positively correlated with neurofeedback performance specifically within the HMD-VR environment.

Conclusions:

• Embodiment may be a critical factor influencing performance in EEG-based BCIs.
• HMD-VR technology shows potential for increasing embodiment during neurofeedback.
• These findings suggest HMD-VR could enhance the effectiveness of BCI-based motor rehabilitation.