Adaptive P300-Based Brain-Computer Interface for Attention Training: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

• Rising prevalence of cognitive deficits necessitates accessible training solutions.
• Neurofeedback via brain-computer interfaces offers non-invasive cognitive training.
• P300-based neurofeedback shows potential for attention enhancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• Accelerate attention training using iterative learning control in an adaptive P300 speller task.
• Replicate previous findings on P300 speller attention training effectiveness.
• Compare personalized vs. non-personalized adaptive task difficulty.

Main Methods:

• Single-blind, 3-arm randomized controlled trial with 45 healthy adults.
• Neurofeedback training using an adaptive P300 speller with progressive difficulty.
• Comparison of performance-based adaptive difficulty, random difficulty, and personalized adaptation.
• Assessment of brain pattern changes, transfer effects (random dot motion task), fatigue, and perceived workload.

Main Results:

• Study approved by Maynooth University Ethics Committee (BSRESC-2022-2474456).
• Registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05576649).
• Participant recruitment and data collection commenced October 2022; results anticipated in 2023.

Conclusions:

• Iterative learning control in adaptive P300 speller tasks can accelerate attention training.
• This approach offers a user-friendly and rapid training option for cognitive deficits.
• Replication of prior studies would further validate P300 speller effectiveness for attention training.