Application of the modified memory battery in different process of sleep

ABSTRACTAim: The concept of learning and memory in different states of consciousness is a debated subject with much research potential and interest. In relation to that, this study was completed with the aim of measuring implicit and explicit memory through different tests conducted while the test subjects were asleep and awake.Method : A novel multi-blocked memory assessment design was utilized in three conditions. Modified versions of Auditory Verbal Learning Test and Word Recognition Test were consecutively used for pre-sleeping and post-sleeping states. The implicit memory and learning was measured by means of a modified Word Stem Completion Test. The depth of the sleep-state consciousness was monitored by Bi Spectral Index (BIS) scores. The stimulations were applied via headphones while the test subjects were asleep.Results: In the light of the tests applied to experiment and control groups, outcomes of measurements of explicit memory, implicit memory, and learning, while there is no difference in terms of explicit memory between groups, differences in implicit memory are revealed. When experiment group's test scores that aims to measure implicit memory are examined, it is found that they recalled more words that were presented during sleep than control group. This result is statistically significant. Furthermore, differences in completion of meaningless words that are presented to subject in implicit memory measurement are statistically revealed.Conclusion : In line with these findings, it is inferred that learning occurs during sleep. For explicit memory no significant difference is observed and it is concluded that sleep has neither positive nor negative effect on implicit memory. Novel Multi Block Memory Design allowed evaluation of explicit and implicit memory. Availability of this test battery also for various cognitive states except than sleep is possible.Key Words: Sleep, Implicit Memory, Explicit Memory, Learning, MMBD, WSCT