Module 1, 2 and 3
Module 1: Introduction to neurofeedback 4 hours
Definition of neurofeedback, History and Development of Neurofeedback, The basics of learning applied to Neurofeedback, the theoretical bases of Neurofeedback.
Module 2: Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology 4 hours
Neuroanatomy: The central and the autonomic nervous system. Functional neuroanatomy: the sensory pathways: from the periphery to the cortex. The subcortical nuclei and the cerebral cortex. Functions of subcortical structures, classification of the cerebral cortex into cortical lobes, maturation of the central nervous system and functional significance. Classification of brain areas and their functional significance. Higher cognitive functions: perception, memory, attention and executive functions. Functions of the left and right hemisphere. Concept of module and network. Neurophysiology: Bioelectrical origin of the electroencephalogram. The brain generators of the EEG. Definition of Event Related Potential and Slow Cortical Potential. Concepts of neuroplasticity.
Module 3: Electronic instrumentation and EEG registration principles: 4 hours
Basic essential terms and concepts in electronics and instrumentation. The amplifiers. The filters. The electrodes. The analog-digital conversion.
Signal acquisition: the 10-20 system. International standard measurement. Montage options and their characteristics. Comparison between QEEG and other neuroimaging techniques (eg PET, fMRI, CT, MEG, SPECT). Recognition of normal EEG patterns. The development of the EEG. Evaluation of the variables of the subject during the recording: alert-drowsiness, drug/addiction/anxiety. Recognition and correction of non-cerebral signals. Artifacts: external electrical interference, electrode artefacts and cables, patient artifacts.
Signal processing: the analog signal and the digital signal, basic terms of the EEG, the frequency bands of the EEG, typical pathological patterns of the EEG. Different types of registration (unipolar, bipolar) and derivation.
