Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

Doctor of Information Technology (D.I.T.)

School

Information Systems and Technology

Advisor

Steven V. Case

Abstract

Although in the past 50 years significant advances based on research of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology have occurred, there is a scarcity of BCI assistive technology devices at the consumer level. This multiple case study explored user-centered clinical BCI device design strategies used by computer scientists designing BCI assistive technologies to meet patient-centered outcomes. The population for the study encompassed computer scientists experienced with clinical BCI assistive technology design located in the midwestern, northeastern, and southern regions of the United States, as well as western Europe. The multi-motive information systems continuance model was the conceptual framework for the study. Interview data were collected from 7 computer scientists and 28 archival documents. Guided by the concepts of user-centered design and patient-centered outcomes, thematic analysis was used to identify codes and themes related to computer science and the design of BCI assistive technology devices. Notable themes included customization of clinical BCI devices, consideration of patient/caregiver interaction, collective data management, and evolving technology. Implications for social change based on the findings from this research include focus on meeting individualized patient-centered outcomes; enhancing collaboration between researchers, caregivers, and patients in BCI device development; and reducing the possibility of abandonment or disuse of clinical BCI assistive technology devices.

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