Concepts for Developing and Utilizing Crowdsourcing for Neurotechnology Advancement

Abstract : There is a large general interest in the development of brain-computer interactive technologies (BCIT), which couple the power of machines with the complexity and flexibility of the human brain. However, currently there is a gap between a general understanding of brain function and related neuroimaging tools, which is mostly limited to highly trained neuroscientists and engineers who wish to capitalize on this knowledge base. This program proposal outlines a three-pronged approach aimed to help bridge this gap while simultaneously spurring public interest in the BCIT field. It entails: (1) development and distribution of low-cost, modular electroencephalography (EEG) headsets, which can be assembled and used by a novice, (2) development of a series of tutorial modules on EEG data collection intended for users to become armature developers of BCIT applications, and (3) a Grand Challenge series centered around the use of crowdsourcing as a means of widespread application development. Included are some programmatic suggestions, as well as exemplar applications to fit this end goal.