Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test

Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT) is a virtual environment-based measure of learning and memory. We examined convergent and discriminant validity and hypothesized that the VRCPAT's Total Learning and Memory scores would correlate with other neuropsychological measures involving learning and memory, but not with measures involving potential confounds (i.e., Executive Functions; Attention; and Processing Speed). Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 15 minute VRCPAT battery and a 1.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a randomly selected sample of 20 healthy adults that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. That is, findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity that is 1) consistent with that assessed by traditional paper and pencil measures involving learning and memory; and 2) inconsistent with that assessed by traditional paper and pencil measures assessing neurocognitive domains traditionally assumed to be other than learning and memory. We conclude that the VRCPAT is a valid test that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study memory function within an ecologically valid environment.