Neural Mechanisms of Choreorgraphic Memory: An EEG Study on Dance Learning and Recall

While dance is a fundamental aspect of human culture and communication, its neural basis remains underexplored. To address this gap, this study aims to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying dance learning and recall through electroencephalography (EEG). This study recruited participants with dance experience to view seven short video clips while wearing an EEG cap. Participants engaged in mental imagery for 30 seconds between each clip, visualizing themselves performing the choreography. After viewing all the clips, participants attempted to physically perform the choreography from memory. EEG analysis focused on alpha, beta, theta, and gamma frequencies to compare neural activity during video observation and mental imagery. Results revealed a significant increase in alpha power during mental imagery compared to video watching, particularly in posterior regions (PO4 and P8), suggesting enhanced cognitive processes related to memory recall and motor planning. A paired samples t-test confirmed this difference (p < .001). Additionally, alpha power during video watching and mental imagery were strongly correlated (p < .001). No significant power changes were found in the theta, beta, and gamma ranges. These findings suggest that mental imagery engages neural circuits involved in memory encoding and movement planning, highlighting the potential of EEG to reveal neural processes underlying choreographic memory. Future research should explore the impact of marking, verbal rehearsal, and larger, more diverse samples to enhance our understanding of dance learning mechanisms.