An Investigation Of Feedback Modality Effects On Neurofeedback Learning And Working Memory

Neurofeedback that utilizes the principle of operant conditioning presents EEG activity to individuals in real time through visual or auditory feedback modalities,and enables subjects to learn to self-regulate EEG activity(referred to as neurofeedback learning),with the purpose of improving corresponding cognitive or behavioral performance.Many studies have shown that neurofeedback can improve the symptoms of various mental disorders and the cognitive performance of healthy individuals,but its effects have great individual differences.Neurofeedback learning is a key factor in the effectiveness of neurofeedback,but whether it is influenced by the feedback modality and thus affects the behavior change is rarely explored.Based on the close relation of alpha(8 to 12 Hz)band and working memory,this study aimed to explore the impact of different feedback modalities(visual feedback vs.auditory feedback)on neurofeedback learning,and further explore whether learners who successfully learn to autonomously regulate their alpha activity can achieve their working memory's improvement and have a lasting effect.Using randomized controlled experiment,participants were randomly assigned to the visual feedback training group,auditory feedback training group and control group.The training group received consecutive 5 days of neurofeedback training,and the EEG recordings and working memory tests were performed on the day before training(pre-test),on the day after training(post-test)and one week after the post-test(follow-up),in order to study the lasting effects of neurofeedback training.It was found that different neurofeedback modality had no different effects on neurofeedback learning,but the neurofeedback training of learners who successfully learn to autonomously regulate their alpha activity did enhance their alpha with the increasing training time,and the precision of their working memory was significantly improved.Thus,it can be concluded that increased alpha activity through neurofeedback can improve working memory.