“Think About Us”: Addressing Racial Biases in Current EEG Cap Design and Methodologies for Inclusion of Black Student-Athletes

Systemic racial disparities in research technology design, such as electroencephalography (EEG) systems, continue to limit the participation of Black student-athletes in neuroscience and kinesiology research. Current EEG systems, which rely on fitted caps and gel application for brain signal acquisition, often fail to accommodate diverse hair types and styles, disproportionately excluding this population. This study aimed to: (1) evaluate the feasibility of current EEG caps in terms of acceptability, appropriateness, practicality, and implementation among Black student–athletes; and (2) explore their feedback to refine recruitment strategies and protocols for EEG use in sports research. Black student-athletes (n = 34) completed surveys addressing demographic and hairstyle information alongside EEG cap feasibility. Results indicated dissatisfaction with EEG cap, citing challenges with gel application and hair compatibility. Practicality concerns included cap placement difficulty and the significant time required for post-use hair care (M = 4.09 hours, SD = 2.08). While 35% expressed willingness to participate in a hypothetical study using the EEG cap, 50% were reluctant, and 15% were neutral. A follow-up focus group highlighted a need for transparency, researcher accountability, and culturally responsive approaches. This study underscores how racialized barriers in EEG methodology contribute to underrepresentation and provides actionable insights for educators, researchers, and institutions committed to equity in health and kinesiology research.