Combining EEG and fNIRS
Instructors: Yixin Duan
About this course
Overview
This workshop will cover simultaneous EEG-NIRS measurements. We will introduce both modalities and the benefits of combining them, explaining the nature of each signal and the measurement principles involved. There will be a demonstration of a combined EEG-fNIRS measurement, including tips and tricks for high quality recording. Finally, attendees will learn about using EEG-fNIRS for research applications.
Content
The minicourse will start with a lecture covering the nature of each signal and the measurement principles used to record each signal. We will then consider the benefits of multimodal brain imaging, specifically combining EEG and fNIRS.
After the lecture we will perform a demonstration of an EEG-fNIRS measurement. We will show attendees how to set up the equipment appropriately, how to optimize the setup, and what the recorded datasets look like. In addition, we will provide tips and trips for efficient, high-quality recordings and tools available for data analysis.
The final part of the minicourse will be a lecture from a prominent professor who will explain how they use EEG-fNIRS in their own research. The aim is to give attendees an introduction to what research questions can be answered with EEG-fNIRS and how to put EEG-fNIRS into practice.
We will conclude with a short wrap up session summarising the key learning outcomes plus some guidance on further learning resources.
What will you learn?
Describe the measurement principles behind fNIRS and EEG.
Explain why combining fNIRS and EEG is beneficial.
Identify the components of an EEG-fNIRS setup and explain what they are for.
Explain how EEG-fNIRS can be used in research applications
Course details
Course duration
3 hours
Prerequisites and/or other notes
N/A
Delivery plan
- Session title: Introduction to combined EEG-fNIRS
Description: Nature of each signal, Measurement principle for each signal, Multimodal brain imaging, Benefits of the EEG-fNIRS combination and Multimodal EEG-fNIRS recording
Duration: 60 minutes
- Session title: Demonstration of an EEG-fNIRS measurement
Description: Demonsatration of how to set up and do a combined EEG-fNIRS recording. Best practice for combining these methods Tips, tricks, and troubleshooting. Overview of how to analyse the data
Duration: 60 minutes
- Session title: Example of EEG-fNIRS research
Description: An experienced professor will explain how they use EEG-fNIRS in their research to give attendees a introduction to what research questions can be answered with EEG-fNIRS
Duration: 45 minutes
- Session title: Conclusion
Description: Summary of key points and revisit learning goals. Advice on next steps in learning
Duration: 15 minutes
Why should you enroll in this course?
There is a growing trend towards combining brain imaging modalities, with EEG–fNIRS emerging as a promising multimodal approach. By integrating these methods, researchers can leverage the complementary strengths of each technique to gain a more complete understanding of brain function.
fNIRS offers superior spatial resolution compared to EEG, while EEG provides much higher temporal resolution. Combining the two therefore enables improved characterization of brain activity across both space and time. In addition, fNIRS is generally less susceptible to noise than EEG and, like EEG, is portable, making it suitable for use outside of traditional laboratory settings. As a result, combined EEG–fNIRS experiments are well suited to both controlled lab studies and research in more naturalistic environments.
The goal of this minicourse is to provide an opportunity for participants to explore the benefits of multimodal brain imaging using EEG–fNIRS.