Disentangling working memory processes during spatial span assessment: A modeling analysis of preferred eye movement strategies

Abstract

The neurocognitive processes involved during classic spatial working memory (SWM) assessment were investigated by examining naturally preferred eye movement strategies. Cognitively healthy adult volunteers were tested in a computerized version of the Corsi Block-Tapping Task—a spatial span task requiring the short term maintenance of a series of locations presented in a specific order—coupled with eye tracking. Modeling analysis was developed to characterize eye-tracking patterns across all task phases, including encoding, retention, and recall. Results revealed a natural preference for local gaze maintenance during both encoding and retention, with fewer than 40% fixated targets. These findings contrasted with the stimulus retracing pattern expected during recall as a result of task demands, with 80% fixated targets. Along with participants’ self-reported strategies of mentally “making shapes,” these results suggest the involvement of covert attention shifts and higher order cognitive Gestalt processes during spatial span tasks, challenging instrument validity as a single measure of SWM storage capacity.

Keywords:

• Spatial working memory
• Spatial span
• Corsi Block-Tapping Task
• Eye tracking
• Descriptive modeling.

Acknowledgements

We thank Anna Legenkaya and Anvay Ullal for their help with paradigm administration.

Funding

This work was sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) [grant number 5T32DA007315-09/10]; National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) [grant number R01MH071916]. The contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Department of Health and Human Services NIDA, or NIMH.