Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) measures changes in the brain through optical processes that determine the levels of oxygen and maps neurological activity. fNIRS provides high spatial resolution in the cortex; however, because reaction in the brain is not immediate, fNIRS provides relatively low temporal resolution.
The fNIRS is portable, easy to set up, and does not cause harm or discomfort to the subject. fNIRS probes are affixed to the subject’s forehead. The subject is then usually presented with a variety of stimuli on a computer screen.
The Edmond J. Safra Center conducts fNIRS research together with its partners at Drexel University. Research is currently being conducted in reading, mathematics, and underlying skills using this equipment.
