Component-Based Analysis of Visuospatial Memory Using the Corsi Task

Visuospatial memory is commonly assessed through tasks involving the serial recall of visually presented spatial information. This forms the basis of the Corsi task, where participants recall visual stimuli presented in specific spatial sequences. In this study, we quantified the effects of key components typically confounded within the Corsi task including the recall type, display duration, and spatial organization of the sequences. Recall spans and response times were measured in 30 healthy participants using different Corsi task variations. Recall type was assessed by recalling either the exact order of the sequences presented (sequential recall) or in any order (free recall). The effect of display duration was assessed by presenting items sequentially or simultaneously (sustained) before the recall. To assess the effect of spatial organization, sequences varied in spatial alignment (structured vs. unstructured) and proximity of the items (clustered vs. unclustered). A virtual reality setup provided a controlled, low-distraction environment during assessments. A psychometric staircase approach was employed to adapt sequence length in real time, ensuring accurate estimation of recall spans. There was a significant effect of recall type, display duration, and spatial organization of sequences on the Corsi span. Response times were mainly affected by spatial organization of the sequences and display duration. These results demonstrate that key components that can affect encoding, storage, or retrieval of visuospatial information can be effectively isolated and measured within the Corsi test.