A 3D virtual environment rod and frame test: the reliability and validity of four traditional scoring methods for older adults

J Clin Exp Neuropsychol. 2003 Dec;25(8):1169-77. doi: 10.1076/jcen.25.8.1169.16733.

Abstract

This study introduced a 3D rod-and-frame test in a virtual environment (VERF) and evaluated its reliability and concurrent validity according to four scoring methods previously used with 2D tests. Thirty nonimpaired older adults (15 men; 15 women) aged 64-86 (M=73.6) manipulated a rod in a semi-immersive 3D virtual environment. Results suggested that the conventional 2D scoring method of absolute deviation from vertical was the most reliable method (alpha=.79; gamma=.89). This approach also had higher correlations with traditional neuropsychological measures of spatial ability than three other methods. Given the availability of a reliable and valid scoring method, the VERF may result in previously unavailable insights through the measurement of visuospatial abilities in 3D.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cognition*
  • Environment*
  • Female
  • Field Dependence-Independence
  • Frail Elderly / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods*
  • Internal-External Control
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychometrics
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Research Design*
  • Statistics as Topic
  • Visual Perception