Evaluating the feasibility of consumer-grade EEG devices for use in undergraduate cognitive research
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Consumer-grade EEG devices have risen in popularity over the last decade, due to their affordability and promises surrounding data quality. The current study aimed to examine the feasibility of consumer-grade EEG devices for use in undergraduate research, utilising a quantitative, within-groups, experimental design. The chosen device for this research was the Emotiv Insight EEG. Four research questions were explored to assess the feasibility of the chosen device: (i) Can this device detect changes in attention across different conditions?, (ii) Does the 2-back task data correlate with the EEG attention data?, (iii) Can this device detect differences between baseline waves and task waves?, (iv) Are baseline conditions stable over time? Participants completed a series of 2-back tests, with different genres of music playing during each. Raw EEG data was pre-processed using MNELAB through Python. Statistical analyses were conducted (Friedman tests, bivariate correlation, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). While mixed, results indicated that the presently available consumer-grade EEG devices are not feasible for use at undergraduate level. The current study’s strengths and limitations are discussed. The current study establishes guidelines for future consumer-grade EEG feasibility testing, and notes suggestions for future research.
Source: Figshare
Author: Darragh McCusker (24244939)
Language: English
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7165603316