Article Chosen: The Science of Multitasking, and Why You Should Doodle in Class
Critical Reading
As I read the article, I kept track of my reactions,and ideas:
At first, I was surprised by the claim that doodling could help with focus. I’ve always thought of multitasking as something that divides attention and decreases performance. But this article flipped that idea on its head.
The article explains how light multitasking (like doodling) can keep the brain engaged without taking away from focus. It made me think about how I often struggle to stay focused in long meetings or study sessions. Maybe I’ve been overestimating the importance of total focus and ignoring how my brain might benefit from mild background activities.
This article contrasts with others I’ve read that say multitasking is inefficient. For instance, one of the articles I read for this discussion argues that multitasking splits attention and reduces efficiency. Here, it’s presented that light multitasking can boost performance.
My Personal Examples
I recalled times when I’ve found it hard to stay focused during long lectures or while reading dense material. I’ve often been tempted to check my phone or let my mind wander, which doesn’t help me focus. However, when I doodle or take small breaks, I notice I can stay engaged longer and better absorb the material. The article really resonated with my experience.
Summary of the Article
The article discusses how multitasking, particularly light multitasking like doodling, can actually improve focus and memory retention. It challenges the common belief that multitasking always reduces performance. Instead, it presents evidence that certain activities—like doodling during lectures or study sessions—can help the brain stay engaged without overwhelming it. The key takeaway is that mild multitasking, when done in moderation, could be beneficial for learning and attention.
Outline
Introduction: Multitasking is often seen as detrimental to productivity, but this article challenges that view.
Main Points:
1. Doodling, as a form of light multitasking, can help with focus and memory.
2. The science behind how mild background tasks keep the brain engaged.
3. Research findings showing that multitasking can improve attention in certain contexts (such as in class or during meetings).
Conclusion: Mild multitasking, when done correctly, can have positive effects on learning and productivity.