Memory Load and Display Polarity in Visual Search Performance and EEG Response

Abstract

Electroencephalogram measures have frequently been shown to be highly sensitive to variations in task conditions; however, research on the effects of memory load on EEG response and Visual Display Terminal (VDT) performance is lacking. Data from 19 college students were analyzed for effects of memory load and polarity on VDT performance. Included also were modulation of the EEG distribution around the cerebrum, the inferred source of operation of working memory and comprehension. Analyses indicated that the effects of memory load on finish time were statistically significant. The theta (θ) band at FP1 and FP2 had larger change in power than at T6, showing a large effect between memory load and frontal lobe function. This experiment on polarity and EEG response indicated the power change in the θ band was stronger for positive contrast than negative; however, the polarity of the display had no statistically significant effect on EEG response.