ERP Studies
Introduction
At the ECCL, we are interested in how people use verbal and implicit cues to interpret other's actions. To examine this question, we use a variety of measures, both behavioral and electrophysiological. Electrophysiological measures, such as the electroencephalogram (or EEG) measure ongoing electrical activity in the body, and of particular interest to us, in the brain. When the brain processes information, cells called neurons emit electrical signals. The EEG is a method of listening in on and recording those electrical signals.
In our experiments, we use a method called event related potential (ERP), which is a derivative of the EEG. The ERP provides information about the electrical activity in the brain in response to specific events. So, we present different types of events for you to reason about, such as pictures of actors performing various tasks. At the same time, we record an EEG by placing a plastic cap on your head. The information we obtain demonstrates how the brain processes different types of information.
Interested in participating?
Contact us at eccl@u.washington.edu or by phone at 206-616-6770.
Participants
If you're participating in our study, here are few things to know and prepare ahead of time to make your visit more enjoyable.
The procedure takes about 1 hour. When you first arrive we will give you more information about the study. Then, we will fit you with an electrode cap (see photo above). The cap is fitted with wet sponges, so although your hair will be a little damp, it's very comfortable overall. Once the cap is in position, you will view a series of photos and be asked to push a button in response to certain events. This part of the procedure takes about 30 minutes, and we do give you a break in the middle. Afterwards, we will remove the cap, and you will get a chance to see the recordings of your brain's electrical activity.
We are located in the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences, room 226. Click here for directions to our lab.
A few important notes for participants:
1) Please come in with clean, dry hair. If you normally put products in your hair, please leave them out today! The extra stuff in your hair can keep us from getting a good electrical signal off your scalp.
2) Know also that your hair and part of your face will get a bit wet in this process. We'll provide a hair dryer for you, but anyone who wears make-up may want to be aware of possible running.
3) The experiment is in an enclosed room, and for those who wear contacts, they can get a bit dry in your eyes. It might be more comfortable (although not necessary) to wear glasses during the experiment.
