Ruumikutest

Ruumikutest is a term used in some discussions within cognitive science and human–computer interaction to describe a hypothetical assessment of how a person perceives the space immediately around and within their body, and how they perceive their body's boundaries in relation to the surrounding environment. It is not a formally standardized or widely adopted tool in mainstream psychology or neuroscience.

In practice, ruumikutest is described as a set of tasks that probe proprioception, peripersonal space, and body-size perception, sometimes in virtual reality. Proponents suggest measurements such as accuracy, response time, and consistency across trials, often with reference to a personal or avatar-based body scheme.

Common methodologies include blindfolded limb-position estimation, reach-ability judgments, size-adjustment of an on-screen or avatar body, and distance estimation between body parts. VR implementations may use head-mounted displays to test how changes to avatar scale or perspective affect perceived reach and body boundaries.

Applications and limitations: Ruumikutest is conceptual in nature and has seen limited formal validation. In speculative design and VR interface calibration it is discussed as a way to tailor interactions to individual body perception. Critics note that lack of standardization, small samples, and potential cultural biases limit reliability and comparability.

See also: Proprioception, Peripersonal space, Body schema, Spatial cognition, Virtual reality.