Decoding brain waves: EEG attention detection across performance levels

Abstract

This study aims to quantify and analyse the neural patterns associated with varying levels of focus and concentration, specifically examining Delta, Theta, Alpha, Beta and Gamma brain waves. To enable real-time monitoring of neural responses, a synchronised data collection pipeline was implemented using the Muse 2 headband to record raw EEG signals alongside gameplay data during a dynamic gameplay task. The game was designed with events of varying intensity to elicit event-related potentials, allowing for a detailed investigation of brain wave fluctuations. Explorations are conducted on both inter-participant differences in neural activity and intra-participant interactions between distinct brain wave oscillations. This thesis aims to provide deeper insights into the neural mechanisms underlying sustained attention and cognitive performance, ultimately with the aim to answer the question: What exactly distinguishes between high and low performers?