I am serving as a member of Giuseppe Edwardo Thum’s Honors Thesis Committee. The committee includes Dr. Ashraf Gaffar (chair) and myself.

Thesis defense is scheduled on April 9, 2017, 1:30 pm MST, Peralta Hall room 202.

Abstract

Brains and computers have been interacting since the invention of the computer. These two entities have worked together to accomplish a monumental set of goals, from landing man on the moon to helping to understand how the universe works on the most microscopic levels, and everything in between. As the years have gone on, the extent and depth of interaction between brains and computers have consistently widened, to the ‘point where computers help brains with their.thinking in virtually infinite everyday situations around the world.
The first purpose of this research project was to conduct a brief review for the purposes of gaining a sound understanding of how both brains and computers operate at fundamental levels, and what it is aboutthese two entities that allow them to work evermore seamlessly as the years go on. Next, a history of interaction between brains and computers was developed, which expanded upon the first task and helped to contribute to visions of future brain-computer interaction (BCI). The subsequent and primary task of this research project was to develop a theoretical framework for a potential brain-aiding device of the future. This was done by conducting an extensive literature review regarding the most advanced BCI technology in modem times and expanding upon the findings to argue feasibility of the future device and its components. Next, social predictions regarding the acceptance and use of the new technology were made by designing and executing a survey based on the Unified Theory of the Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Finally, general economic predictions were inferred by examining several relationships between money and computers over time.