Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as a Teaching Tool for Undergraduate Neuroscience Methods

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a portable, non-invasive neuroimaging technique that is well-suited for project-based undergraduate neuroscience research methods courses. In this paper, we first explain the basic principles of fNIRS including how it measures neural activity as well as its strengths and limitations. Next, we explain why fNIRS is well-suited for an undergraduate project-based human neuroscience methods classroom. We then lay out what skills students gain by designing an fNIRS study and collecting and analyzing the data. Finally, we provide a concrete guide to do this in the classroom including a timeline, example projects, and potential problems and how to address them. We hope this will inspire educators to use this powerful yet accessible tool for education in human neuroscience research in a wide variety of educational environments.