Introduction to Brain-Computer Interfaces - 585.783

Recent advances in neural interfacing and neural imaging technology and the application of various signal processing methodologies have enabled us to better understand and then utilize brain activity for interacting with computers and other devices. In this course, we will explore these technologies and approaches for acquiring and then translating brain activity into useful information. We will also discuss the components of a brain-computer interface system, including invasive and noninvasive neural interfaces, the clinical and practical applications for a variety of users, and the ethical considerations of interfacing with the brain. Students will investigate the benefits and limitations of commonly used signal processing and machine learning methods (which include independent component analysis, Bayesian inference, dimensionality reduction, and information theoretic approaches), and then apply these methods on real neural data. We aim to equip students with the foundational knowledge and skills to pursue opportunities in the emerging field of brain-computer interfacing.

Course Prerequisite(s)

EN.585.615 Mathematical Methods for Applied Biomedical Engineering; EN.535.641 Mathematical Methods for Engineers; or a written permission from the instructor. EN.585.732 Advanced Signal Processing for Biomedical Engineers and a good knowledge of MATLAB are strongly recommended.