Performance-Based Differences in Prefrontal Cortex Activation: Assessing Dynamic Marksmanship Performance Using...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Military Science

Background:

• Marksmanship is a critical skill for military personnel.
• Neurophysiological differences underlying marksmanship performance are not well understood.
• Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) can track prefrontal cortex (PFC) activation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate cognitive load differences in the PFC between proficient and non-proficient marksmen during a simulated dynamic marksmanship task.
• To utilize fNIRS to measure PFC hemodynamic activity.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four participants (12 proficient, 12 non-proficient) performed a simulated dynamic shoot/no-shoot course of fire.
• fNIRS monitored relative concentrations of oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) and total hemoglobin (total Hb) in the PFC.
• Proficiency was determined by performance on a stationary pistol task.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in task completion time between groups.
• Non-proficient marksmen exhibited significantly higher HbO2 (26.3%) and total Hb (42.1%) in the PFC compared to proficient marksmen.
• These results suggest greater cognitive load in less proficient individuals.

Conclusions:

• PFC hemodynamic activity, measured by fNIRS, can differentiate marksmen based on proficiency.
• Increased PFC activation in non-proficient marksmen indicates higher cognitive load during dynamic tasks.
• fNIRS application in marksmanship training may enhance stress resilience and mission readiness.