Exploring the Human Computer Interface and Photic Driving.
Abstract
The application of a stroboscopic light within a certain frequency range may cause a subject's brain waves to follow or become entrained to the same frequency as the flashing light. This phenomenon is known as photic driving. The objective of this study is to determine if computer monitors can be used as the presentation medium for photic driving, and to investigate whether any measurable cognitive changes can be caused through this photic driving. In the software design, two Java applets were written which caused the flashing of the screen in both a regular, set frequency and at a random frequency. A webpage was developed as a container for a subset of the Kit of Factor-Referenced Cognitive Tests. An empirical study was performed utilizing a light/sound machine, the Java applets as well as the cognitive tests. Twenty-five subjects were divided into three sample groups and their performance during all phases of the study were recorded and analyzed. Analyses of the results indicate that no direct correlation between photic driving and test score can be proved. Subjects' comments following their participation indicate however that there were some significant effects caused by the photic driving that were not reflected in the test scores.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA362006
Entities
People
- Robert B. Peterman
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School