What is the Corsi Block-Tapping Task?
The Corsi Block-Tapping Task is a classic neuropsychological test developed by Philip M. Corsi in 1972 and popularized by neuropsychologist Brenda Milner. It measures visuospatial short-term memory and working memory capacity through spatial sequence recall.
How Does the Corsi Test Work?
The test uses nine blocks arranged in an irregular spatial pattern. Participants watch as blocks highlight in sequence, then reproduce the pattern. Forward span measures short-term memory, while backward span tests working memory by requiring mental manipulation of spatial information.
Clinical Applications
The Corsi Block-Tapping Task is used in neuropsychological assessments to detect spatial memory deficits, research on working memory capacity, cognitive aging studies, and brain imaging research examining the hippocampus and parietal cortex.
Average Corsi Span Score
Research shows the average adult Corsi span is approximately 5 blocks for forward sequences. Performance varies with age, peaking in early adulthood. Brain imaging studies identify the right hemisphere parietal cortex and hippocampus as critical for visuospatial memory.