  Brain computer interfaces (BCI) decode the electrophysiological signals from
the brain into an action that is carried out by a computer or robotic device.
Motor imagery BCIs (MI BCI) rely on the user s imagination of bodily movements,
however not all users can generate the brain activity needed to control MI BCI.
This difference in MI BCI performance among novice users could be due to their
cognitive abilities. In this study, the impact of spatial abilities and
visuospatial memory on MI BCI performance is investigated. Fifty four novice
users participated in a MI BCI task and two cognitive tests. The impact of
spatial abilities and visuospatial memory on BCI task error rate in three
feedback sessions was measured. Our results showed that spatial abilities, as
assessed by the Mental Rotation Test, were not related to MI BCI performance,
however visuospatial memory, assessed by the design organization test, was
higher in high aptitude users. Our findings can contribute to optimization of
MI BCI training paradigms through participant screening and cognitive skill
training.
