BI3BT1: Brain Computer Interfaces and Soft Technologies

Module code: BI3BT1

Module provider: School of Biological Sciences

Credits: 20

Level: 6

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Professor Slawomir Nasuto, email: s.j.nasuto@reading.ac.uk

Module co-convenor: Dr Yoshikatsu Hayashi, email: y.hayashi@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: No

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 18 September 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This module introduces students to foundational concepts in Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) and Soft Robotics—emerging technologies that leverage recent advances in neuroscience and robotics. Grounded in an understanding of the human brain and body through the lens of neural networks, biomechanics, and motor control, the module explores key technologies such as electroencephalography (EEG), implantable flexible electrodes, and cutting-edge developments in soft robotics for biomimicry and assistive applications.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:

1. Interpret Brain Signals for Cognitive and Control Applications:  Identif the relationships between brain signals and cognitive functions, and apply this knowledge to control external devices. Students will gain practical experience in developing a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI), including hands-on work with modern BCI equipment and coding for signal processing.​
2. Apply Design Principles in Soft Robotics and Implantable Technologies:  Access fundamental design principles and technologies underpinning recent advancements in soft materials and robotics. The module will cover two key areas: soft, flexible electrodes used in neural implants, and soft robotics designed for assistive applications inspired by biomechanics.
3. Explore Neurorehabilitation Strategies Using BCI and Soft Robotics:  Evaluate principles and applications of neurorehabilitation technologies that integrate Brain-Computer Interfaces and soft robotics. Students will examine how these systems can support recovery of motor and cognitive functions, and assess current approaches in restoring sensorimotor control in individuals with neurological impairments.

Module content

1. Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
   Students will be introduced to Brain-Computer Interfaces as a form of assistive technology. This section covers the fundamental neuroscience principles underlying various BCI systems, along with their applications in neurorehabilitation. Students will gain hands-on experience with BCI technology, including signal acquisition and signal processing techniques necessary to implement closed-loop BCI systems.
2. Soft Technologies
   • Flexible Electronics: This section explores the rapidly advancing field of flexible electronics and its medical applications. Students will examine fabrication protocols using soft elastomers (e.g., silicone), conductive polymers (e.g., PEDOT:PSS), and hydrogels. Case studies on implantable systems will be presented, along with examples of neural recording and stimulation.
   • Soft Robotics: Focusing on biomimicry and adaptability, students will study the design and function of soft robotic systems. Emphasis will be placed on the compliant, resilient materials that enable these robots to perform complex movements and grasping tasks. The course will highlight the advantages of soft robotics over traditional rigid systems, particularly in assistive and rehabilitative applications.
3. Neurorehabilitation Applications
   This section examines how BCIs and soft robotic technologies converge in the field of neurorehabilitation. Topics include the restoration of motor and cognitive function following neurological injury or disease, patient-cantered assistive systems, and therapeutic feedback loops. Students will analyse current and emerging strategies for stroke rehabilitation, spinal cord injury support, and neurodegenerative condition management through adaptive, technology-enhanced interventions.

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

The module comprises lectures, practical sessions, and a major coursework. The lectures introduce the basic concepts, methodologies and tools for BCI and soft technologies. During the practical sessions the students will carry out hands-on activities on soft technologies.

Study hours

At least 40 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activities will be delivered in person, with the remaining hours for scheduled and self-scheduled teaching and learning activities delivered either in person or online. You will receive further details about how these hours will be delivered before the start of the module.

Please note the independent study hours above are notional numbers of hours; each student will approach studying in different ways. We would advise you to reflect on your learning and the number of hours you are allocating to these tasks.

Semester 1 The hours in this column may include hours during the Christmas holiday period.

Semester 2 The hours in this column may include hours during the Easter holiday period.

Summer The hours in this column will take place during the summer holidays and may be at the start and/or end of the module.

Assessment

Requirements for a pass

Students need to achieve all of the following to pass this module:

1. Students taking the BEng Biomedical Engineering programme must also achieve a mark of at least 30% in each summative assessment.
2. An overall module mark of 40%

Summative assessment

Penalties for late submission of summative assessment

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

Assessments with numerical marks

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment indicated in your Individual Learning Plan): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each calendar day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of three calendar days;
• where the piece of work is submitted up to three calendar days after the original deadline (or a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment indicated in you Individual Learning Plan), the mark awarded due to the imposition of the penalty shall not fall below the threshold pass mark, namely 40% in the case of modules at Levels 4-6 (i.e. undergraduate modules for Parts 1-3) and 50% in the case of Level 7 modules offered as part of an Integrated Masters or taught postgraduate degree programme;
• where the piece of work is awarded a mark below the threshold pass mark prior to any penalty being imposed, and is submitted up to three calendar days after the original deadline (or a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment indicated in your Individual Learning Plan), no penalty shall be imposed;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than three calendar days after the original deadline (or a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment indicated in your Individual Learning Plan): a mark of zero will be recorded.

Assessments marked Pass/Fail

• where the piece of work is submitted within three calendar days of the deadline (or a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment indicated in your Individual Learning Plan): no penalty will be applied;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than three calendar days after the original deadline (or a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment indicated in your Individual Learning Plan): a grade of Fail will be awarded.

Where a piece of work is submitted late after a deadline which has been revised owing to an extension granted through the Assessment Adjustments policy and process (self-certified or otherwise), it will be subject to the maximum penalty (i.e., considered to be more than three calendar days late). This will also apply when such an extension is used in conjunction with a DAS-agreed extension as a reasonable adjustment.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: /cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/qap/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf

You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Formative assessment

Formative assessment is any task or activity which creates feedback (or feedforward) for you about your learning, but which does not contribute towards your overall module mark.

Students will be encouraged to submit an outline of their report, and a draft report prior to final report submission. In class exercises will be set.

For Soft technologies, students will be expected to do a demo of their developments.

Reassessment

Additional costs