The Human-Computer Interface in Computer-Based Concussion Assessment

Abstract

Recent progress in technology has allowed for the development and validation of computer-based adaptations of existing pencil-and-paper neuropsychological measures and comprehensive cognitive test batteries. These computer-based assessments are frequently implemented in the field of clinical sports psychology to evaluate athletes' functioning postconcussion. These tests provide practical and psychometric advantages over their pencil-and-paper counterparts in this setting; however, these tests also provide clinicians with unique challenges absent in paper-and-pencil testing. The purpose of this article is to present advantages and disadvantages of computer-based testing, generally, as well as considerations for the use of computer-based assessments for the evaluation of concussion among athletes. Furthermore, the paper provides suggestions for further development of computerized assessment of sports concussion given the limitations of the current technology.

Teleneuropsychology practice survey during COVID-19 within the United States

“…Working with testing publishers to standardize existing tests to virtual formats, as well as the development of tests that could be readily deployed in remote formats (e.g., computerized testing) may be worthwhile. Finally, prior literature suggests that cognitive testing can be drastically impacted by various aspects of technology (e.g., screen size, volume, resolution, refresh rate, internal or external data recording devices), as well as the testing environment (e.g., audiovisual distractions; Woodard & Rahman, 2012). Understanding how differences in teleNP delivery (e.g., use of tablet vs. laptop vs. phone) and differences between these service platforms can impact testing results is needed to support standardized test administration.…”

The Relation Between Testing Environment and Baseline Performance in Child and Adolescent Concussion Assessment

“…12 Computerized administration has its advantages and disadvantages over more traditional assessment using paper-and-pencil tests. 2,12,20 Advantages include allowing groups of individuals to be tested simultaneously, reducing the time to complete the testing process and the number of examiners. Data are easily recorded electronically for future use.…”

“…Scoring is completed automatically and can be more accurate, particularly for timed tasks, and without human error in computing scores. 12,20 Reliable change metrics can be written into a computerized scoring program to compare results across serial evaluations. Disadvantages of computerized test administration include some variability in timing measurements, 2 a restricted response format (ie, not amendable to open-ended responses), and the common misperception that because the instructions, stimuli, and scoring are processed through a computer, there is less of a need for interpersonal instruction or supervision.…”

“…The lack of one-to-one feedback or reinforcement that is available in typical neuropsychological assessment may result in lower motivation or greater boredom in a group setting, and effort may not be as readily identified. 20 Some individuals may be poor candidates for a group testing format because of problems with attention and distractibility (eg, a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD]). Athletes with ADHD and/or learning disabilities have been shown to perform significantly worse on a baseline performance measure than athletes without the diagnosis.…”