Brainwave Technology Enhances Psychology Studies at APU

When psychology meets technological innovation, fascinating possibilities emerge. Imagine a lamp capable of reading your emotions and visually expressing them through colour transitions!

This was the captivating experience shared by 30 psychology students and faculty members at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) on 26 November 2024.

The School of Psychology (SoP) hosted an engaging workshop featuring guest speaker Mr Chan Han Wee, a distinguished counsellor, certified Neurosky Brain-Computer-Interface (BCI) instructor, and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) consultant from Mindful Neuro Plt.

The event, spearheaded by SoP lecturer Mr Jaff Choong Gian Yong, explored the cutting-edge topic of Seeing Emotions Through Brainwave Technology.

At the heart of the session was the “emotional lamp”, an innovative device that uses BCI technology to read brainwave patterns and translate emotional states into a dynamic spectrum of colours.

Widely utilised in corporate settings for stress monitoring and mental health recovery, the lamp has promising applications in psychological research and education.

During his presentation, Mr Chan delved into the neuroscience of emotions, explaining how the “prefrontal cortex”—often referred to as the brain's “CEO”— plays a pivotal role in emotional regulation.

Using tools like the Satir personal iceberg model, he highlighted the layered nature of emotions, advocating for addressing their roots to achieve long-term emotional stability. In a live demonstration, attendees witnessed the lamp respond to emotional shifts through vivid colour changes, offering a tangible way to visualise and regulate emotions.

This hands-on experience left a lasting impression, showcasing the interplay between thoughts, behaviours, and feelings, and underscoring the importance of brainwave modulation in relaxation and stress relief.

The session also touched on gender differences in brain functionality, with Mr Chan explaining how evolutionary traits influence multitasking and focus, resulting in unique brainwave patterns.

Participants left with actionable insights on transitioning from high-paced beta waves to delta waves for improved relaxation, sleep, and overall well-being.

Reflecting on the session, Associate Head of the School of Psychology, Ms Vinorra Shaker, commented:

"Incorporating technology like the emotional lamp into psychology studies brings a fresh, engaging dimension to the learning process. Tools like these not only enhance understanding but also make abstract concepts more tangible. They inspire students to explore innovative approaches to emotional well-being, bridging the gap between theory and practical application."

This workshop was a testament to APU’s commitment to integrating advanced technology with psychology education, opening new avenues for research, emotional health interventions, and immersive learning.