The Article of Technology Psychology

Brain Computer Interface (BCI) and The Role in the Development of

Sustainable Psychology
Tarmizi Thalib, S.Psi

Humans face an era of disruption that is able to lead them into a global
situation that requires rapid mobilization and change. Creating a new world order or
gradually becoming extinct swallowed by extraordinary technological developments.
We notice that this change is greater influenced by economic factors. Giving birth to
a new business model based on innovation and strategy. As well as creating a more
efficient and productive market mechanism. All of that for the big role of
technology.

This development certainly affects other disciplines. Wide changes ranging

from the business sector, transportation, social culture, education and of course
psychology. Being one of the challenges for psychology to actively participate in this
situation. Their subject of study may not be extinct before the end of the world, but
specifically their knowledge can be explored by other fields with the role of
developing technology. Psychology inevitably has to evolve and make a renewable
development manifesto.

If neuropsychology can get started first. The need for efficient and effective
mobility is no longer just the needs of certain groups. Existing technology
development helps those who have special limitations in their activities.
Neuropsychology sees human activity affected by the nervous system which when
unable to function normally will affect motor and psychic. The presence of the
distribution era and the continuous development of technology are seen as
productive opportunities so that the handling of people with special needs becomes
better.

This paper tries to find further linkages between technological and

psychological development. One technology that is quite interesting to study is the
Brain Computer Interface (BCI). The collection of tools that are incorporated in BCI
is able to provide visualization to the human senses to become one of the techniques

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in human motor healing. BCI is one of the technologies that would have the greatest
development prospects if linked to psychology.

Brain Computer Interface (BCI)

BCI is a set of technologies that can connect the human brain to a machine.
With this function, human performance will increase (Kool and Argawal, 2016). BCI
translates brain activity into signals (Nijboer, et al., 2007). This allows BCI to
communicate intentions only with the brain, not involving muscles (Mellinger, et al.,
2007). So for those who have motoric disorders, BCI is one promising alternative.

BCI is made with various forms and uses. Most products / devices are made
to help the treatment process, but some are entertainment. All devices use neural
mechanisms to be able to operate optimally. For example, Electrocorticography
(ECoG), Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial Direct Current
Stimulation (tDCS), Neuro-gaming, Exoskeletons and other devices with different
BCI techniques.

Kool and Argawal (2016) divide the types of BCI into three types, namely
Invasive, Noninvasive BCI and Invasive Partial BCI. Invasive BCI is said because
the BCI technology is implanted directly into parts of the brain through
microsurgery. This treatment can be used to provide vision, hearing or motor
impairment of neuroprostheses in patients who experience interference. In contrast to
invasive techniques, non-invasive BCI is capable of conservative treatment that does
not require surgery or removal of soft tissue. This treatment can reduce pain in the
head. Even if there are complaints on the head, it is usually a form of pain. The
Invasive Partial BCI places the implant as a device inside the skull but does not
reach the brain. So that the position does not need to penetrate the cortex.

Applicable BCI
In practice BCI types are produced into procedurally different tools. Its use
requires accuracy ranging from moderate to high. Each device must get ISO
standardization and associate it with Fitt's law to facilitate users.

Electrocorticography (ECoG)
ECoG is an invasive partial BCI type. The originators were Wilder Penfield
and Herbert Jasper. They use this tool to treat severe epilepsy patients. They map the
cortex to isolate the origin of the seizure then after surgery remove the parts that are

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considered to be the cause. Surgeons who use ECoG must first have a craniotomy.
Remove the skull section to explore the surface of the brain. They use electrodes
placed on the open cortex (Kool and Argawal, 2016).

Various studies on ECoG

illustrate that this BCI device is
superior to EMG or EEG. The
ECoG has a higher spatial and
amplitude resolution than the
EEG, wider bandwidth, a
greaterratio signal to noise and
has less vulnerability to the brain
like EMG. ECoG provides
information about movements sumber: https://github.com

that far exceed those provided by EEG. Information in

ECoG can also be used to provide BCI control in one or two dimensions with little
training (Schalk, 2010).

In its development ECoG also transformed with several techniques. One of them is
an intraoperative technique. Intraoperative ECoG is a useful technique for use in
medical epilepsy surgical treatments that are difficult to solve. However, its
effectiveness can vary depending on the pathological causes underlying seizures
(Yang, et al., 2014).
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
TMS or transcranial magnetic stimulation are devices that are noninvasive or
specifically included as part of the noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) technique.
TMS uses focused magnetic stimulation (Kool and Argawal, 2016). This tool
modulates cortical plasticity that has electric current (100 μs) and is sent through a
circular wire placed on the scalp.
With this mechanism a different
magnetic field is produced (1.5 to
2 tesla) which induces an electric
field and then changes nerve
activity (Elder & Taylor, 2014).

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 One study cross-over with TMS resulted in effects on various
neuropsychological tests in patients with MCI (n = 7)
and further studies showed that TMS resulted in an sumber: https://www.ohba.ox.ac.uk

increase in non-verbal recognition memory. A study

single case also shows that TMS produces improvements in a variety of sizes,
including associative memory. The most common side effects of TMS use are
transient pain (with a prevalence of around 40%), usually depending on the
individual's mental condition that is stable to the location, intensity or frequency of
stimulation. The effects of TMS therapy may be additive (improving organ function)
because the therapy session is repeated for 6 weeks. Therefore, TMS can modulate
and improve motor learning, vision, memory and attention to individuals who are
also healthy (Elder & Taylor, 2014).

Neuro-gaming
Neuro-gaming is a non-invasive console operating system that no longer uses
fingers but is connected to the EEG through gloves (Kool and Argawal, 2016). Not
only using real gloves, there are also additional tools that accompany it. Such as the
use of emotiv EPOC and neuroheadset to collect electroencephalographic (EEG)
signals. The use of these tools is used in BCI control research with virtual reality
techniques by Paszkiel (2016). In general, neuro-gaming attempts to connect
between brain frequency bands, involvement in various tasks (activities) and
passionate (affective) circumstances (Parsons, 2015).

The progress of sophisticated, immersive and very interesting video game

technology has provided an effective platform to improve performance (Raphael, et
al., 2011). By using neuro-gaming, one can feel an almost near-real experience.
Significant differences may be found in the visualization that is used still looks like a
cartoon. But with him, someone has been able to be in a position as if in a real game.

Neuro-gaming like other types of games is more visible as a fun tool. But
according to Paszkiel (2016) neuro-gaming is widely used in treating mental
disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-
traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Not only that, neuro-gaming also functions very
well as a practical medium for understanding neuroscience (Schwarz, et al., 2014).
The large amount of BCI computing on neuro-gaming and sensor technology enables
time-to-day monitoring of cognitive and affective activities for these patients. This

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 can be studied objectively, timely and
ecologically (Parsons, 2015). So, it is very
helpful in controlling the healing process.

Exoskeletons

Exoskeletons are a BCI device used

by soldiers in the battlefield. In terms of
history, exoskeletons have transformed into
devices that are more efficient than before.
The beginning was created in the 1960s by
the US Naval Research Development Office,

sumber: https://uploadvr.com
exoskeletons resembling giant armies
weighing 680 kg and named Hardiman. In 2000 made
exoskeletons were which were named HULC (Human Universal Load Carrier)
weighing 90 kg. Exoskeletons have been proven to fail due to the inability of the
makers to understand biomechanics in humans (Kool & Agrawal, 2016).

HULC's failure did not necessarily discourage the makers from stopping. A
few years ago, was prepared a new exoskeleton called TALOS (Tactical Assault
Light Operating Suit). TALOS turns into lighter clothing than HULC weighing more
than 9 kg. TALOS is made of fabric, consisting of a flexible cable, a small electric
motor with a strength of 140 W. By using these exoskeletons, the army is able to
carry a load of 30% of their weight and 7% more efficiently without load (Kool &
Agrawal, 2016).

Exoskeletons are robotic devices that

control can use neural signals and intrinsic signals
mechanically. Through research Koller, et al.
(2018) concluded that there was no effect of both
methods of controlling exoskeletons on the
metabolism of the human body. So that its use can
be said to be safe for normal people and those who
have limitations.

sumber: https://exoskeletonreport.com

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 Like other BCI devices, exoskeletons can also be devices in motor therapy.
Many sufferers of spinal cord injury or other movement disorders, such as
Parkinson's or injury due to falls, have a good effect after rehabilitation with
exoskeletons. In fact, the disease before it is rather difficult to cure such as stroke,
cerebral palsy, or multiple sclerosis (Burton, 2018).

Optimizing Participation Through Technology (OPTT)

The application of BCI is also carried out using two other techniques. These
techniques are Optimizing Participation Through Technology (OPTT) and Shared
Control Techniques (SCT). OPTT is an attempt to optimize motion in someone who
has motoric disorder using technology. While SCT is an effort to design prosthetic
devices that can replace the function of body parts (Kool & Agrawal, 2016).

We all know that what keeps people from being hampered is our limitation
when we get the disease. There are many kinds of diseases experienced, especially
when they are old. This challenge is exacerbated by economic factors, drug side
effects, family loss, and psychosocial disorders (Rizzo, et al., 2011). To overcome
this, some researchers suggest the need for rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is needed to
accommodate the acquisition of skills, the role of trial and error in healing, and
various ways to improve motor flexibility through rehabilitation (Kool & Agrawal,
2016). The existence of technology greatly helps the rehabilitation process and this is
the form of OPTT intervention.

A Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) conducted a study of

amputee wheelchair users. They researched how to help optimize the rest of the
body's organs so that they are younger to do activities such as driving a car by
themselves. RERC tests by measuring cognitive signals and activating muscle parts.
Then from these results wheelchairs are made that help optimize driving for people
with severe disabilities.

BCI and Psychology

The role of BCI at a glance seems to be greater in the use of motor
disturbances. It is not strange that the psychological aspects are often questioned
about their functions. Psychology assumes that all forms of interaction, both between
humans and things will produce a variety of responses. Likewise BCI, will certainly
affect the psychic aspects of the user.

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 The use of BCI devices helps users understand aspects of emotional
regulation. Subcortical and orbitofrontal structures involved in emotional regulation
can be targets for neurofeedback fMRI-based (Weiskopf, et al., 2004). Besides
measuring emotional regulation, BCI is also able to measure other behavioral effects.
So that the hope for users to understand in depth the conditions and processes that
are passed during the treatment using BCI is more interpreted.

This TMS therapy presents a cumulative increase in mood (Elder & Taylor,
2014). Repeated therapy for 6 weeks provides additive hope of healing for patients.
This therapy also seems to stimulate the endophrine hormone and shift the patient's
view of failure. With the improvement in terms of cognitive psychology, TMS is
able to reduce symptoms of depression in older adults.

The use of TMS requires neurologists to pay close attention to the location of
stimulation on the patient's head. According to Elder and Taylor (2014) the location
of stimulation tends to have a large influence on the therapeutic efficacy of TMS or
tDCS. The severity of diseases such as dimentia or alzaimer and the distance
between TMS and the surface of corticol can affect the TMS response. So that both
TMS and tDCS become BCI devices that are quite specific to certain healing tasks.

For TMS users, they will feel flexibility. We often see dementia patients
often take psychotropic drugs as a healing aid. TMS can interact with such things by
modulating neurotransmitters and neuromodulators (Elder & Taylor, 2014). The
concern is excessive use and without procedural can give birth to dependency or
addiction on the device.

The neuro-gaming application proved to be able to increase student learning

motivation (Schwarz, et al., 2014). With simple techniques in the field of
programmers, educators can combine EEG with inexpensive controller tools to learn
the basics of neuroscience. The results are very satisfying. The teachers can discuss
related techniques and methods, teaching materials, optimizing the learning system
and evaluating the extent to which learning outcomes are achieved. The atmosphere
of the class was no longer wandering because it was thinking about the structure of
the human brain. They have been able to illustrate the structure better.

One of the most important efforts in the development of psychology-based

BCI is that manufacturers are able to make tools in accordance with the needs and

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abilities of users. The use of the device is so long, as in the case of exoskeletons it
makes discomfort at the beginning. The average user will never use a device that
requires more time (Scott, 2013). Therefore, the producers must pay attention to their
sense of ownership on the device if they want to be used by the user. In consumer
research, it is interpreted that a small shift from human perception of an item can
increase sales or reduce its price.

BCI Projections for the Future

A fundamental question of using BCI is whether this kind of device is worthy
of use or even developed in the future. Does this not violate the nature received from
the Creator? The BCI research that was developed at this time tried to answer that
question. Not only the extent to which the effectiveness of the tool functions, but
how ready it can be developed with features that follow Fitt's law. In addition, there
are other parameters that can be used as projections in the future.

We predict that the development of BCI based on psychology will continue

to develop rapidly. The process will take place every year with research that will
affect BCI applications with one another. Not only in neuropsychological aspects,
but also in the line of cross-cultural psychology studies. This plan has been proposed
since the BCI researchers meeting in 2002 in New York (Vaughan, 2003). The
dependence of scientists on the psychic aspect remains a constructive input in this
regard. Daily mobility in the distribution era forces people to perform various
efficient activities without obstacles. And the developers see this situation as a very
large and global market share.

BCI device manufacturers are still relatively small although the business
opportunities are relatively large, author The Neuro Revolution, Zack Lynch became
the most concerned in the development of the neurotechnology industry with the
NIO platform. In 2010, he described himself as the only company focused on
neuroscience, brain research institutions and patient advocacy groups on the entire
spectrum of neurological, psychiatric and neurological injuries (Griffin, 2010). In the
future, it will be possible for new BCI producers to emerge by paying attention to the
measurement phase as the initial phase, use and evaluation of the device.

During this time we pay attention to the measurement stage of technological

suitability on some devices using anthropometric measurements and quantitative

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survey methods as evaluation tools. In the future, it may be needed in more depth the
basis of neuropsychological measurements in meeting aspects of initial planning, use
and evaluation of the device. This is because [practical use of BCI technology will
be determined by the development of appropriate applications and identification of
appropriate user groups, and will require careful attention to the needs and desires of
individual users (Vaughan, 2003).

When using, BCI devices require fast information transfer. The rate of
transfer of maximum information from the brain to the tool ranges from 25 b / min
(Vaughan, 2003). Because they have been developed OPTT and Shared Control
Techniques (SCT) as techniques to help human mobility, it is hoped that later there
will be additional information transfer speeds.

Research by Sellers, et al. (2006) using P300-BCI in people with severe

disabilities showed an average accuracy of tool use of 88%. They designed the
display of BCI with a matrix size of 3 x 3 and 6 x 6 and performed stimulus at
intervals on user performance. With the results they get, they predict that severely
disabled users can use P300-BCI with a more efficient display at home, such as word
processing, answering direct questions, environmental control, sending emails, and
others. With the various measurement processes used, the development of BCI in the
future can show 99% accuracy.

This assessment also stimulates the emergence of more research on accuracy

in BCI with certain techniques in the nervous system in the brain and motor. The use
of P300-based BCI is superior to BCI motor cintra with 80-100% accuracy (Guger,
et al., 2009). There may be other BCIs that are not only intended for users of severe
disabilities such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). But for users who are
physically not so difficult to perform motor or sensing activities. All because of
dependence on tools. As in the study (Guger, et al., 2003) using healthy subjects
with accuracy above 60%. This kind of research is needed to see the accuracy of the
use of the tool, whether it has been enough to help the activity.

Reflecting on research (Parsons, et al., 2015) the use of neural waves

correlated with the user's affective on neuro-gaming is very interesting. Playing the
role of Support Vector Machines (SVM), Naive Bayes (NB), and k-Nearest
Neighbors (kNN) makes virtual reality even more impressive. These features allow

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neuro-gaming to bring sensations to all sensory devices. So that it is not just the
affective aspect, but has reached the conative aspect.

For exeskeletons themselves, there are many challenges faced. The most
important challenge is that the exoskeleton is designed to run not for running,
especially in rough terrain. Second, there are individual differences in the time of
adaptation. Third, the suit must be integrated with all other equipment that forms part
of a soldier's normal equipment. Soldiers have other concerns, such as whether using
exoskeleton can cause a series of injuries themselves (Kool & Argawal, 2016). Of
course, these things are important to be a discourse for producers, including
psychology researchers.

The use of control of exoskeletons mechanical with nerve signals and

intrinsic signals does not affect the user's metabolism. It's just affecting individuals
in using exoskeletons these. Especially during therapeutic rehabilitation or individual
performance augmentation (Koller, et al., 2018). Do not let the use of it create new
diseases in terms of physical psychology due to heavy use of the device. Deshpande
stressed that, although exoskeletons have the potential to help rehabilitation therapy,
more work is needed to determine the most effective way to use them (Burton,
2018).

The neuro-gaming application proved to be able to increase student learning

motivation (Schwarz, et al., 2014). In the future this device is very well used for all
types of learning. In addition, the use of visual reality (VR) is mostly only able to be
used directly by one person. It is expected that there will be more efficient
development in the world of education with VR for many students.

Conclusion
From the explanation above, we see several forms of BCI devices that are
used in various purposes. Most of them are used as a treatment tool for patients with
motor disorders and their relationship to the brain. BCI devices are an excellent tool
for the development of science, including in the field of psychology. Mutually
beneficial relations on both sides bring mutual dependence in the assessment and
productivity of the device. We realize that there are many other aspects of
psychology that can be studied more deeply in this discussion. Whether it's BCI
users, device producers to the subjects that surround them.

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 There are many challenges faced in developing BCI devices, both from the
affective, cognitive and conative aspects. Accuracy in implementation is the main
thing. Alignment in human safety is a very important consideration. However, all
these things are not a barrier to stopping this beneficial project. There will be many
advantages offered in the future. This paper is a productive material for discussion as
an introduction.

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