Assessing the Stability of Cognitive and Attentional Computerized Tests

A Test-Retest Reliability Study

Abstract

This study evaluates the test-retest reliability of four computerized cognitive tests designed to measure selective attention, sustained attention, visual search, and visual scanning. The sample consisted of 39 young adults who completed computerized versions of the Trail Making Test, Visual Search Test, Sustained Attention to Response Test, and Selective Attention Test developed by CogniFit Inc. across three sessions. The study included two comparisons: test-retest on different days and immediate test-retest on the same day. Results indicated consistent outcomes across sessions for all tests, except for certain variables where immediate repetition likely induced learning effects and for variables not crucial for the task. These findings support the reliability of the tests over short intervals, consistent with prior research on cognitive assessments. The study highlights their utility as reliable and accessible tools for broad application. Future research should examine longer intervals and diverse populations to further validate their reliability.