Development of a Computerized Task for Measuring Time Perception

Background: Time perception is considered as an important subject in cognitive psychology, which is essential for our understanding regarding brain mechanisms underlying human cognition and disabilities. Deficits in time perception have been found in people with both attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. The present study aimed at developing and evaluating the Time Perception Software with a sample including 152 Iranian students. Methods: The computerized time perception task was designed based on time estimation, reproduction, production and time comparison method. In order to verify the reliability of the task, 30 students which were participated in the test sample repeated the test after one month. The content and construct validity were used in order to examine the validity of the task. The construct validity of the time perception task was verified by analyzing the confirmatory factor analysis using the Amos 24 software. Results: In the modified model, the comparison factor was eliminated (CFI=0.965). The highest correlation was observed in the time estimation of 11 seconds with a correlation coefficient which was equal to 0.935 (P=0.001), while the lowest correlation coefficient was observed in the time production of 17 seconds with the correlation coefficient which was equal to 0.679 (P=0.001). The internal consistency of the task indicated that the time perception task had a near-optimal validity and its reliability was at the optimal level with the Cronbach’s alpha which was equal to 0.67. Conclusion: In order to conclude, The Time Perception Software appeared to be reliable and valid for assessing and measuring time perception in the Iranian students. This software can be used in future research investigations.