Performance of brain-injured versus healthy adults on three versions of the category test

A Comparison of the Standard Category Test with a New Computer Version

“…The findings of this study are largely consistent with previous research comparing other computer versions to the standard version (Choca & Morris, 1992;Mercer et al, 1997). One exception to this equivalence was documented by Berger et al (1994), who found that a previous computer version resulted in significantly more errors than the standard version.…”

“…As described, the computer version is easier to transport and less likely to require replacement of parts, eliminates the need for a special apparatus specific to the test itself (Slay, 1984), and requires very little space (Mercer et al, 1997). In addition, this computer version may also reduce the potential for administrator error (Choca & Morris, 1992) and is easier to implement in neuropsychological practice.…”

“…Required equipment of the standard Category Test includes a projector, a large wooden, gray box with reflecting mirror and screen, an answer panel containing four levers, and two carousels of slides. Several researchers have highlighted drawbacks of this format, including the need for a special apparatus that is difficult to transport, expensive replacement costs for parts of the apparatus (Slay, 1984), and the large amount of space that the apparatus requires (Mercer, Harrell, Miller, Childs, & Rockers, 1997).…”

“…Using a counterbalanced repeated-measures design in which each examinee was administered both the computer and standard versions, Choca and Morris found that total error scores did not differ statistically across versions. Similarly, Mercer et al (1997) examined the equivalence of the standard Category Test to a computer version and a shortened-form version in a mixed sample of healthy and brain-injured adults. No statistically significant differences emerged between the computer and standard versions on any of the subtests' error scores or total error scores.…”

Applications of Computer-based Neuropsychological Assessment

“…25 Two additional computerized Category Test versions have been developed, 26,27 both of which were found to be essentially equivalent to the original. 28 The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test 29 has also been identified as one of the most widely used neuropsychological tests, 30 and there are numerous commercial computerized versions of the WCST 31 currently in use. 32 Despite the fact that most, if not all, computerized versions of the WCST have not demonstrated psychometric equivalence with the standard manual versions, 33,34 the literature shows extensive use of the computerized version.…”