CE Workshop 05: Technology and Cognition: Examining new trends and opportunities for neuropsychology
Maria T. Schultheis, PhD
Professor
Drexel University
Credit Hours: 3.0
Level of Instruction: Intermediate
CE Workshop 05: Technology and Cognition: Examining new trends and opportunities for neuropsychology
Abstract & Learning Objectives:
Advances in technologies continue to offer new opportunities for understanding brain functioning and brain-behavior interactions. The clinical application of these technologies continues to require the understanding of both the benefits and limitations of integrating these novel methodologies. This workshop will provide an overview of several emerging and established technologies in neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation. This will include discussion of portable brain imaging technologies, neuromodulation technologies, virtual reality simulation and various brain-computer interface devices. In addition, we will discuss how clinical application of these novel devices offer opportunities for growing knowledge in new areas of analysis (i.e., machine learning analysis) and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Upon conclusion of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Identify 3 technologies that are currently employed in neuropsychological research
2. Assess the strengths and weakness of novel technologies for brain-behavior interface
3. Examine current clinical applications of neuromodulation technologies and portable brain-imaging technologies
Speaker Biography:
Maria T. Schultheis, PhD, is a professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Drexel University.
Dr. Schulthies’ clinical and research experience have been focused on the rehabilitation of cognitively impaired populations, including traumatic brain injury, stroke and multiple sclerosis. Specifically, she has specialized in 1) the application of technologies to clinical, research and educational aspects of neuropsychology and 2) studying the demands (physical, cognitive and behavioral) of driving following neurological compromise. Recently, she has focused on the application of Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a tool for ecologically valid assessment and retraining of everyday activities in rehabilitation. Professor Schultheis' overall interest is in research related to the investigation and development of methodologies that have functional significance and can improve the quality of everyday life for persons with disabilities.
Dr. Schultheis' work has been funded by such organizations as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) and National Science Foundation (NSF). Schultheis’ approach is interdisciplinary and her work cuts across the fields of Clinical Psychology, Rehabilitation, Engineering and Transportation. She has published over 100+ manuscripts, chapters and other publications and has presented her work at various international and national forums.