Quote:
Originally Posted by Kali Yuga
Actually, it's been demonstrated in several studies that multitasking most likely does degrade cognitive functioning.
Some of the smack talk is probably exaggerated, but I see no problems with the general premise that constantly switching your focus may be psychologically satisfying while degrading our ability to perform most types of cognitive tasks.
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As I said, it may be true of most people
today; it doesn't mean people won't learn to deal with it better
tomorrow.
Quote:
Originally Posted by pilotbob
So, yes multi-tasking slows productivity due to the context switching overhead.. but it isn't computers that "cause it" they just allow it or make it easier.
I think this topic is quite covered in Covy's getting things done. Part of his system is organizing tasks so that you do all your like task together so you are context shifting less often. Do all your email, then do all your phone calls, then do your word processing, then your research, etc.
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Or, in other words, learn how to multitask in an orderly fashion. And it's a good point: Multitasking has always been with us; but some people handle it better than others. That's hardly the computer's fault. And it doesn't mean people can't learn to do better through proper procedures and practice.