This blog will contain information relating to the relationship between technology and task switching, as well as their impact on learning efficiency. For the uninitiated, the term "task switching" refers to the act of refocusing one's attention between two or more tasks, especially on a repeated basis. The term "learning efficiency" refers to the ratio of information learned to the quantity of time invested in the teaching and learning process.
In addition to task switching, there are a number of related concepts this blog will be used to explore. These concepts include multitasking, dual processing, cognitive load, and fluency/expertise. Lastly, it will explore questions such as: Is multitasking really possible, or do people mistake task switching for multitasking? If multitasking is possible, to what extent and under what conditions can people multitask? To what extent can training--especially technology-based--improve people's competency with task switching and/or multitasking? and If people are trained in task switching or multitasking, will the training transfer to different contexts? Of course, there are many other questions in this same vein that are likely to be investigated, too.
Readers are invited to contribute their expertise on these topics. Please reference comments with relevant quantitative research.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
An interesting topic. I look forward to your thoughts. I think I am a true multitasker. As I habitually do more than one task at a time (simultaneously), though I do see your point about switching tasks being mistaken for dual action I'm not sure I agree. Waiting to see how you progress.
ReplyDelete