Rigor and replication in time-frequency analyses of cognitive electrophysiology data

Abstract

Cognitive electrophysiology is a subfield of neuroscience that focused on linking M/EEG data to aspects of cognition and the neurophysiological processes that produce them. This field is growing in terms of the novelty and sophistication of findings, data, and data analysis methods. Simultaneously, many areas of modern sciences are experiencing a "replication crisis," prompting discussions of best practices to produce robust and replicable research. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to this discussion with a particular focus on cognitive electrophysiology. More issues are raised than are answered. Several recommendations are made, including (1) incorporate replications into new experiments, (2) write clear Methods and Results sections, and (3) publish null results.

Keywords: EEG; Electrophysiology; Methods; Oscillations; Replication; Time-frequency.