Development and Standardization of the Computerized Memory Assessment for Korean Adults / 신경정신의학

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to develop the computerized memory tests for Korea adults. It also aimed at evaluating the reliability and validity of these tests and providing their normative data. METHODS: Computerized versions of digit span, visual span, auditory verbal learning test, and visual learning test were developed through several steps of preliminary applications and corrections. The test-retest reliabilites of each test was evaluated by the paired t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient using the data from 27 normal persons. The validity of each test was evaluated by the Pearsons's correlation coefficient between the computerized test scores and the pre-existing cognitive function tests using the data from 48 normal persons. The normative data were obtained from the 150 Korean adults, age 20 to 50, whose educational levels were higher than high school graduate. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences between the means of the test and retest scores. High correlations were also observed between the tests and the retest scores (r ranged from 0.405 to 0.873). The computerized digit span, visual span, and auditory verbal learning tests scores were highly correlated with the pre-existing memory measures. The computerized memory test scores were greatly influenced by the educational level. The visual learning test seems useful, however, it requires methodological refinement. The normative data and guidelines for interpretation were provided. CONCLUSIONS: Clinically applicable computerized memory assessment tools with high reliability and validity were developed. The normative data for the Korean adults aged 20 to 50 were obtained and the guidelines for the interpretation were provided.