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University of Essex homepage Departments Psychology Research Units and Facilities Centre for Brain Science Babylab Methods we use
Babylab

Methods we use

What does participating involve?

Because babies cannot talk yet, we use a range of different methods to find out what is going on inside their heads.

When we contact you about a study, our researchers will always explain exactly what will happen and which methods will be used, so you can decide whether you would like your child to take part.

Here we have some more information on the methods we use to understand baby behaviour and development.

What’s going on in the brain?

fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy)

fNIRS  measures oxygenation of the blood in the brain using light-sensitive sensors in a stretchy hat. It reveals which brain areas are active, for example while looking at videos.

EEG (electroencephalography)

EEG measures the brain’s electrical activity using small sensors held in a stretchy hat. The sensors sit inside sponges that are soaked in warm, salty water, which helps them pick up the brain signals. 

What can we see babies doing?

Eye tracking

Eye tracking helps us measure where a participant is looking using invisible infrared light. This reveals what participants understand - like whether they can match spoken words to pictures.

Behavioural observation

We watch babies and children interact and play with their caregivers. These observations provide insights into communication, imitation, and social development.

Other methods we use

Surface EMG (electromyography)

Tiny electrical signals can be measured from facial muscles. This technique can detect subtle facial mimicry, even when it's not visible to the naked eye.

EGG (electrogastrography)

Similar in principle to EMG, but instead of muscles, EGG measures the electrical activity of the stomach. This helps us understand how the digestive system is responding, for example to hunger and fullness.

A photo of a baby standing up and reaching for some bubbles floating in front of it, with "University of Essex Babylab" in red and purple text on the left.
Take part in our research

We are always looking for parents interested in taking part in our studies with their babies! If you are pregnant, or have a baby or a child under 3 years old, and you are interested in taking part in our research, please sign-up today.

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