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A comparative experimental study of visual brain event-related potentials to a working memory task: virtual reality
Murat Aksoy1, Chiedu E Ufodiama1, Anthony D Bateson2
1Centre for Anatomical and Human Sciences, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK.
Experimental Brain Research
|August 4, 2021
Summary
Virtual reality head mounted displays (VR HMD) combined with electroencephalography (EEG) effectively measure cognitive tasks. VR HMDs show higher early brain responses (N1/P1 components) compared to computer screens, indicating their utility in brain research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Virtual reality head mounted displays (VR HMD) are increasingly used with electroencephalography (EEG) for cognitive task research.
- Understanding the electrophysiological differences between VR HMD and traditional computer screens (CS) is crucial for accurate cognitive assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare electrophysiological event-related potential (ERP) waveforms (N1/P1/P3 components) between VR HMD and CS during an n-back working memory task.
- To assess the feasibility and utility of combining VR HMD with EEG for studying cognitive functions.
Main Methods:
- Participants performed an n-back working memory task using both VR HMD and CS environments.
- EEG data was recorded using the same headcap for both conditions to capture visual ERPs.
- Analysis focused on comparing the time course, mean, and peak amplitudes of N1, P1, and P3 ERP components.
Main Results:
- ERP waveforms in VR HMD showed a similar time course to CS.
- P3 amplitudes were not significantly different between VR HMD and CS.
- N1 amplitudes were significantly higher in VR HMD at frontal electrodes.
- P1 amplitudes were significantly higher in VR HMD at occipital compared to temporal regions.
Conclusions:
- Combining VR HMD with EEG is a viable method for acquiring ERPs during cognitive tasks.
- The elevated N1/P1 amplitudes in VR HMD suggest its potential for investigating early electrophysiological responses.
- VR HMD-EEG offers a promising approach for advancing experimental brain research on cognitive function.
