University of Twente Student Theses
Investigating Cognitive Load in Cyclists while Navigating in Traffic through fNIRS
Heine, Fenja (2024) Investigating Cognitive Load in Cyclists while Navigating in Traffic through fNIRS.
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| Abstract: | This study investigates cognitive load patterns in cyclists across various traffic events using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to monitor haemoglobin oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Fifteen participants navigated eight different traffic scenarios, revealing significant cognitive load increases when passing over crosswalks, passing pedestrians, and avoiding obstacles. Dynamic route features, especially those involving interactions with pedestrians and obstacles, had a greater impact on cognitive load than static features. Connectivity analysis within the PFC showed weak to medium connections, with varying network sizes across events and notable differences between the right and left dorsolateral PFC (DLPFC). Specifically, the left-DLPFC exhibited decreased cognitive load during pedestrian events, contrasting with increased load in the right-DLPFC. Factors such as participant age and route familiarity may influence these patterns. The findings highlight the significant impact of dynamic route features on cognitive load, suggesting that infrastructure design should aim to minimize such interactions. Further research is recommended to explore cognitive load patterns across different age groups and with more precise brain region mapping. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/100379 |
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