NeuroBlock: A block-based programming approach to neurofeedback application development.

Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) applications are gaining popularity as Electroencephalography (EEG) hardware becomes more accessible. BCI technology is used for various purposes such as neurophysiological evaluation, device control, user-state monitoring, and cognitive improvement. Although BCI software platforms exist, there are few systems designed to assist novice programmers with creating BCI applications. We present "NeuroBlock", a block-based programming approach to neurofeedback application development. Motivated by insights presented in BCI and visual languages literature, our system enables novice programmers to build applications that adapt to users' affective state. We evaluated the system's appropriateness by tasking novice programmers with developing neurofeedback applications inspired by previous BCI studies. Our exploratory study with 40 participants demonstrates that novice programmers are capable of developing neurofeedback applications using NeuroBlock. Furthermore, participants had a positive perception of NeuroBlock's usability.