This multiple-trial verbal learning and memory test offers innovative design and psychometric sophistication. Ongoing interference with the learning process is embedded into the test procedure. This interference taxes source memory, invites intrusion errors, and impedes efforts to organize the material to be learned. In doing so, it frees the ILT from the ceiling effects that limit many other neuropsychological tests--making the ILT ideal for detecting mild and moderate as well as severe impairment. In addition, this ongoing interference establishes learning conditions more similar to those encountered in everyday life.

    The ILT is composed of two word lists. List 1 includes 20 target words and 24 distractors. List 2 presents 16 targets and no distractors. Each word is printed on a separate card--targets on white cards, distractors on blue. The examinee is instructed to read all the words aloud while trying to learn the targets and ignore the distractors.

    Four trials are administered for List 1, then two trials for List 2. The examinee is then asked to recall List 1 targets. After a 30-minute interval filled with nonverbal tests, the examinee is again asked to recall List 1 targets. This is followed by a category cued recall trial, a recognition memory trial, and an indirect memory task.

Quick and Easy Scoring With the ILT Disk

    ILT results include a Validity Index plus numerous Basic Scores and Summary Indexes in three areas: Learning, Delayed Recall, and Recognition. Scores can be calculated by hand using material in the Manual. Because this is a complex and time-consuming task, however, users typically prefer the ILT scoring program, which is provided on CD. Most ILT results are presented as normalized T-scores, corrected for age and premorbid IQ, and based on a nonclinical sample of 393 individuals, ages 16 to 93.

    The ILT can be used any time you need a measure of verbal learning and memory. It's quick (just 20 to 30 minutes), the directions are simple, and the task is easy to understand. In addition, the ILT measures not only basic learning and retention but also the qualitative aspects of memory, including proactive inhibition, retroactive inhibition, organization of recall, and position effects.