Testing Memory

The n-back

One of our tests, the second one of the 3 available to members, uses photographs in an unusual way. The images are presented one after the other and the user must decide if a particular image was seen before in the series. It is a fun and challenging experience. We also use different pictures each time the test is shown.

This particular design has a long history in memory testing and the design is known as "n-back" because the subject must remember back by a certain number of images. It is difficult to score and drives the psychometricians nuts. Psychometricians are the experts who use mathmatics and statistics to analyze psychological data.

Dr. Wesson Ashford, MD, Ph.D., a distinguished Alzheimer's Disease specialist, currently working at the Stanford VA in Palo Alto, has worked with us to develop this test in several different versions. He uses the basic n-back design in lectures and demonstrations all over the country. Everyone enjoys the 5-minute demonstration of this test - not just the Alzheimer's specialists. Dr. Ashford likes its simplicity and quickness. This is what is needed for an Alzheimer's screen. When I was in his office last week he and his assistant Emily Gere demonstrated it to me on Dr. Ashford's laptop using PowerPoint. For large audiences they distribute test sheets and have everyone check a box if they have seen a particular image before. It works very well.

So when you take the n-back test (number 2) you are in for a treat. You should also know that this test design is being used daily for memory testing.

posted by Henry Bowles @ 8:27 AM