Using microcomputer-based eeg to enable and encourage student-designed projects

Microcomputer-based electrophysiological recording systems enhance undergraduates’ understanding of neural activity and enable them to design independent research projects. The physiological psychology class at Alma College has employed BIOPAC Systems MP100 hardware with Acq-Knowledge software and Macintosh computers to record and analyze electroencephalograms (EEG). After examining progressive changes in brain waves during sleep, student researchers have proceeded to study the effects of a variety of factors such as caffeine, cognitive tasks, and prior experiences. The simplicity of the system allows undergraduates to concentrate on experimental design and data analysis rather than instrumentation.