EEG-based BCI game to measure thinking skills in children with motor impairments

Utilizing an Electroencephalography-Based Brain-Computer Interface Game to Evaluate Cognitive Skills in Children With Motor Impairments

Observational University of Alberta · NCT07109830

This project tests whether an EEG-based brain-computer interface (BCI) game can measure cognitive skills in children aged 7–16, including those with motor impairments.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment73 (estimated)
Ages7 Years to 16 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alberta Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Edmonton, Alberta and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT07109830 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The project uses an EEG-based brain-computer interface game to record brain activity while children complete game tasks, aiming to bypass motor response requirements. It comprises three parts: a pilot comparing BCI and keyboard controls and alignment with NEPSY-II cognitive subtests, a validation study correlating game performance with standardized cognitive tests in typically developing children, and an adaptation study comparing neurotypical children with children who have motor impairments. Participants aged 7–16 will wear EEG equipment during game sessions and also complete NEPSY-II subtests to examine convergent validity and feasibility. The observational design focuses on whether the game can provide inclusive, reliable measures of cognitive skills without requiring physical responses.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Children aged 7–16, with or without motor impairments, who can follow simple commands and do not have significant vision impairment.

Not a fit: Children with vision impairment or who cannot follow simple commands are unlikely to benefit from this EEG-based game assessment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the game could give children with limited motor ability a fairer, more engaging way to show their cognitive skills using brain signals instead of physical responses.

How similar studies have performed: Related BCI research has shown promise for communication and basic cognitive measurement, but using an EEG game as a formal cognitive test for children with motor impairments remains relatively novel and not widely validated.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children with and without motor impairments.
* Ages 7-16.
* Understand simple commands

Exclusion Criteria:

* Vision impairment

Where this trial is running

Edmonton, Alberta and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Children With Motor Impairments
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.