A Framework for Human Learning Ability Study Using Simultaneous EEG/fNIRS and Portable EEG for Learning and Teaching Development

Abstract

In ageing society, it is not only that we need better care and treatment to maintain the quality of life of elderly population but also need better ways to strengthen the development of our children so that we could live in a healthy ageing society. This study proposed a framework for human learning ability study by using multimodal neuroimaging through simultaneous EEG/fNIRS measurement and neuroinformatics to understand target learning ability in laboratory and using portable EEG device to monitor real-time brain state for evaluating the learning/teaching methods introduced for improving the target learning ability in learning environment. By incorporating neuroscience approach in both laboratory and learning environment, not only scientific findings from neuroscience studies could give implications to educators to improve students’ learning, but also the developed learning/teaching methods could be assessed their effectiveness in classroom practice. This framework may help contribute in bridging the gap between neuroscience and education, which is the aim of educational neuroscience. Toward smart education, the proposed conceptual framework deploys truly brain-based learning/teaching approach to enhance students’ learning to better acquire the knowledge and cognitive skills.