Electroencephalography (EEG) is the measurement of electrical brain activity along the scalp. Through the multiple electrodes placed on the head, the EEG equipment measures voltage fluctuations resulting from ionic current flows within the neurons of the brain. While this device can measure activity on the cortex only, it has very high temporal resolution of 4,000 Hz (4,000 times per second).
In order to take measurements, electrodes are affixed to a cap, and a conductive gel is applied. The equipment is highly portable, allowing research to be conducted at schools and learning centers outside of the Center.
The Edmond J. Safra Center uses a 64-channel BioSemi EEG to conduct research in reading, mathematics, memory, attention, and other skills. The equipment does not cause any harm or discomfort to the subjects.