title: Improving digit span assessment of short-term verbal memory.
abstract: We measured digit span (DS) in two experiments that used computerized presentation of randomized auditory digits with performance-adapted list length adjustment. A new mean span (MS) metric of DS was developed that showed reduced variance, improved test-retest reliability, and higher correlations with the results of other neuropsychological test results when compared to traditional DS measures. The MS metric also enhanced the sensitivity of forward versus backward span comparisons, enabled the development of normative performance criteria with subdigit precision, and elucidated changes in DS performance with age and education level. Computerized stimulus delivery and improved scoring metrics significantly enhance the precision of DS assessments of short-term verbal memory.
authors.affiliation: Human Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, VANCHCS, Martinez, CA, USA.
authors.forename: David L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Woods
authors.forename: Mark M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Kishiyamaa
authors.forename: E William
authors.initials: EW
authors.lastname: Lund
authors.forename: Timothy J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Herron
authors.forename: Ben
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Edwards
authors.forename: Oren
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Poliva
authors.forename: Robert F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Hink
authors.forename: Bruce
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Reed
mesh_terms: D000161:Acoustic Stimulation; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008570:Memory, Short-Term / Q000502:physiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013997:Time Factors; D014706:Verbal Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult