Exploring the Quantum Nature of Human Cognition: Integrating Quantum Cognitive Science and Advanced Cognitive Assessment through the Verbovisual Cognitive Function Screening Tool (VCFST)
Authors: Elin Mirza Niaz Zaman 
Published: August 2023

The Verbovisual Cognitive Function Screening Tool (VCFST) is a cognitive screening tool that aims to evaluate cognitive abilities by drawing upon established theories such as dual-coding theory, common coding theory, propositional theory, and ideomotor theory. However, recent developments in quantum cognitive science offer promising applications to enhance the assessment model. This article explores the utilization of quantum cognition concepts within the VCFST and discusses its implications for cognitive assessment. Quantum cognitive science is an emerging interdisciplinary field that applies principles from quantum physics to the study of human cognition. It suggests that cognitive processes may not adhere strictly to classical logic and linear thinking but can exhibit characteristics of quantum phenomena such as superposition, entanglement, and contextuality. By incorporating quantum concepts into cognitive assessment, a more nuanced understanding of complex cognitive processes can be achieved.The VCFST, with its focus on verbovisual factors and comprehensive assessment of cognitive domains, can benefit from the integration of quantum cognitive science principles. Superposition, borrowed from quantum physics, implies that individuals can simultaneously perceive and attend to multiple stimuli. By considering the superposition of verbovisual stimuli within the VCFST, a more accurate representation of cognitive abilities can be obtained, capturing the simultaneous processing of different types of information. Entanglement, another key principle of quantum cognition, can be applied to evaluate the interconnectedness of cognitive domains within the VCFST. Analogous to entangled particles, changes in one cognitive domain may influence others. By assessing the impact of changes in one domain on performance in other domains, the VCFST can provide a holistic understanding of cognitive functioning. Contextuality, a fundamental concept in quantum cognition, emphasizes the role of context in shaping cognitive processes. By incorporating contextuality into the VCFST, contextual cues can be introduced, and stimulus presentation can be varied to reflect real-world cognitive demands. This approach enables a more ecologically valid measure of cognitive abilities, considering the influence of context on cognitive processing. Embracing quantum cognitive science principles in the VCFST offers several advantages, including capturing the complexity of cognitive processes, accounting for non-linear dynamics, and exploring potential quantum-like effects within human cognition. Future research can further refine the VCFST by conducting quantitative studies to assess the efficacy of incorporating quantum concepts into cognitive assessment and developing computational models inspired by quantum cognitive science.The utilization of quantum cognitive science concepts within the VCFST shows promise for advancing cognitive assessment practices. By incorporating principles such as superposition, entanglement, and contextuality, the VCFST can provide a comprehensive and nuanced evaluation of cognitive abilities. Further research in quantum cognitive science and the refinement of assessment methodologies can contribute to the development of more advanced and accurate cognitive assessment tools, facilitating personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cognitive disorders and neurodegenerative conditions. The integration of quantum cognitive science into cognitive assessment represents an exciting frontier that can revolutionize our understanding of human cognition.