Applying Functional Animation to Pictorial Symbols for Supporting P300–Brain–Computer Interface Access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices by Children
Kevin M. Pitt, Zachary J. Cole, Joshua Zosky
Abstract
Motion techniques, such as highlighting communication items via flip and/or zoom motion, may support BCI-AAC success and comfort for those using P300 brain–computer interface techniques for augmentative and alternative communication device access (BCI-AAC). However, the utilization of motion in P300-BCI-AAC for children is largely unexplored. Therefore, the aims of this investigation are to provide initial insights into the impacts of functional pictorial symbol animation on (a) event-related potentials underlying P300-BCI-AAC performance and (b) children’s user experience. Participants completed two conditions: (1) a static item condition, and (2) a functional animation condition. Following completion, participants completed Likert scale ratings of factors like visual appeal. Animation significantly increased parieto-occipital P200/P300 amplitudes and delayed parieto-occipital N200, P200/P300, and N400 latencies. Further, animation raised ratings of visual appeal to a level approaching significance. Static highlighting significantly increased N400 amplitudes. Findings provide early insights into neural activity underlying P300-BCI-AAC highlighting of pictorial symbols via animation in children and justify further evaluation.