Sensory Modalities and Other Factors Affecting Scoring of Digit Span Test

Abstract

Working memory (WM) is the process of keeping information for a short period of time. WM refers to a brain system that provides temporary storage for complex cognitive task. The working memory capacity is limited and it performs both the functions of memory and processing for a short duration of time (Baddeley, 2012). WM serves as an interface between perception, long term memory and action. Despite physical absence of sensory input, a representation of the information can be maintained over a period of time (Baddely, 2012). There are a lot of tests available to determine working memory capacity. Digit span test is one of the easily accessible tests to detect WM. Wechsler’s Digit span test consist of two subtests. One is digit forward test and another is digit back word test. In this test the examiner asked the participant to repeat increasing span of digit in forward manner for digit span forward test and in reverse manner for backward test. The length of digit increases in each line. For each trial in forward and backward digit span test, a correct response will score as 1 and incorrect score will be marked as 0. The item score is the sum of the score in two trials. The maximum score in each sub test will be 16. Aim of the study: The main aim is to evaluate the possible factors affecting the result of digit span test. Procedure and Result: Digit span test was carried out in audio only modalities by using audiometer in a sound treated chamber. DST in both audio-visual modalities was carried out using software in video format. After completing the DST, we continue pure tone audiometry test to find out the relationship between age, hearing abilities with working memory. From this study we found that hearing loss, age have negative correlation with scoring of DST in both of these modalities.