Characterization of Perceptual Ability Based on Resting EEG

Abstract

Human perception is a part of cognitive ability that can best be described as a function that requires contact with the surroundings. Conventionally, the Comprehensive Trail Making Test (CTMT) is an established method for assessing perceptual ability. As perception and attention is highly correlated in terms of neuronal synchronization, it is thus hypothesized that the varying levels of human perception can be observed through the electroencephalogram (EEG). In this paper, characterization of different perception level based on resting EEG features is proposed. Data acquisition which consists of CTMT trials and EEG recording are obtained from 65 healthy samples. The CTMT scores and time taken to complete each trial are used to establish the control groups. Subsequently, EEG power ratio for theta, alpha and beta bands is evaluated to distinguish between different levels of perception. The proposed method has shown distinct pattern of theta, alpha and beta power ratio features among three levels of human perception. The findings demonstrate a correlation with alpha suppression and neuronal synchronization theories. Samples with high level of perceptual ability demonstrate the highest alpha ratio. Conversely, they exhibit the lowest theta and beta ratios. Meanwhile, samples with low perception level obtained the lowest alpha ratio. Contrariwise, they exhibit highest theta and beta power ratios. Those with high level of perception also demonstrate shorter answering time compared to low and medium perception level.