Validation of the Virtual Meeting Task: An Objective Measure of Compensatory Strategy Use

Abstract

Abstract Slowed information processing speed (IPS) is a common consequence of acquired brain injury. Where direct training of IPS aiming at its improvement appears ineffectual, learning compensatory strategies can be of support in everyday task performances. Cognitive training teaches individuals strategies to compensate for slowed IPS in everyday life. However, few instruments exist that objectively measure compensatory strategy use. We developed a pre-recorded experimental task that measures strategy execution, strategy planning and task execution feasible for individuals with slowed IPS. This study’s aim was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Virtual Meeting Task (VMT) as an objective measure of compensatory strategy use in a healthy population. A group of 31 healthy younger adults and 34 healthy older adults participated in this study. The participants were administered to parallel, counterbalanced VMT versions at baseline level and after an eight-week follow-up. Results indicated an adequate test-retest reliability and a good parallel forms reliability. Furthermore, moderate correlations between the VMT and neuropsychological measures of IPS were found, indicating moderate construct validity. It was concluded that the VMT is a reliable and valid method for objectively measuring compensatory strategy use related to slowed IPS. Keywords: Acquired brain injury, Slowed IPS, Compensatory strategy use, VMT