Cognitive requirements for effective use of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) in pediatric populations: A scoping review.

Background: Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are technologies that may allow children to operate assistive devices by translating their brain signals into commands for the devices. BCI technology requires specific user skills for successful operation. However, the cognitive demands remain relatively...

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Published in:Technology & Disability Vol. 37; no. 3; pp. 247 - 259
Main Authors: Rios Ortegon, Johana, Leung, Ada W. S., Adams, Kim
Format: research systematic review tables/charts Journal Article
Published: Sage Publications Inc. Aug2025
Online Access:View this record in EBSCOhost
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      dt: Aug2025
      vid: 37
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      pub: Sage Publications Inc.
      place: Thousand Oaks, California
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        atl: Cognitive requirements for effective use of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) in pediatric populations: A scoping review.
      aug:
        au:
          Rios Ortegon, Johana
          Leung, Ada W. S.
          Adams, Kim
        affil: Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
      sug:
        subj:
          Children with Disabilities
          Cognition
          Needs Assessment
          Brain-Computer Interfaces Utilization
          Assistive Technology Devices Utilization
          Human
          Scoping Review
          Embase
          Medline
          Psycinfo
          CINAHL Database
          Child
          Adolescence
          Attention
          Motivation
          Processing Speed
          Child Development
          Male
          Female
          Child: 6-12 years
          Adolescent: 13-18 years
          Male
          Female
      ab: Background: Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are technologies that may allow children to operate assistive devices by translating their brain signals into commands for the devices. BCI technology requires specific user skills for successful operation. However, the cognitive demands remain relatively unexplored, particularly in pediatric populations, where developmental differences and cognitive variability significantly influence usability and performance. Objective: This review explores what has been reported on the cognitive requirements for using BCIs, with a focus on the pediatric population. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across six databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL) for original research studies involving children aged 5–18 using BCIs for control purposes. Inclusion criteria focused on studies reporting cognitive factors relevant to BCI performance. Data extraction and analysis followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, highlighting attention, motivation, and processing speed as key factors influencing BCI performance. However, the limited pediatric research suggests significant gaps in understanding the cognitive factors involved in BCI performance. Conclusions: Further research is necessary to tailor BCI systems implementation to the unique cognitive and developmental needs of children. Addressing these gaps will enhance BCI usability and effectiveness, promoting greater independence for children with motor disabilities.
      pubtype: Academic Journal
      doctype:
        research
        systematic review
        tables/charts
        Journal Article
      ougenre: Article
    language: English
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