Cognitive tests on a digital platform : for improved sleep research

Abstract

Sleep disorders have been found to result in deteriorated cognitive function at various levels of the cognitive system. Cognitive function can be linked to specific sleep disorders. In order to know which area of the brain these sleep disorders are linked to, numerous diverse cognitive tests need to be researched. There are various cognitive tests that exist to measure and improve sleep and cognitive functions, but there is often significant variability in these measures and moreover, they are analog. That is why new, more efficient and modern ways are needed in order to collect and visualize cognitive data from individuals over an extended period of time.This is a software development project, where a digital platform has been developed for the purpose of facilitating a variety of cognitive tests which can be used with a wide range of participants. The goal is to make these digital cognitive tests understandable so they could potentially be self-administered, while still maintaining the validity of the tests.To analyze the digital platform, 9 participants evaluated usability, simplicity, and attractiveness. Additionally, another concurrent study where 38 participants tested the cognitive tests in a battery, was performed. The participants answered SUS and AttrakDiff questionnaires.Most participants liked the digital platform but there are numerous potential improvements and additional features that can be made and added to it. If these improvements are made, this digital platform has the potential to become a valuable tool in sleep research, as well as give users a more enjoyable way of taking cognitive tests.