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From mobiles to laptops, the average U.S adult spends more than 11 hours per day interacting with media, according to a survey by Nielsen.
Are there cognitive repercussions arising from our increasingly screen-ridden world? If so, what can we do to lower any negative impacts? Maria Droujkova and Jim Nash from the company Geonode have been considering these questions. They have shared their insights with Digital Journal.
Unravelling the impact of digital screens
Digital screens are everywhere, from cell phones to computer monitors, tablets, to the television screens in our living rooms. While these devices have innumerable benefits, the sheer volume of information and the frequency at which we consume it may be adversely affecting our cognitive abilities.
Over-exposure to screens, particularly for non-educational content, may contribute to a decline in critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In extreme cases, it might even promote cognitive laziness.
The downside of digital distractions
According to Droujkova and Nash, the downsides of extended screen use are:
Shortened attention span:
One of the most commonly cited concerns is the dwindling attention span. Constant exposure to bite-sized content, rapid-fire notifications, and the endless scroll of social media have trained our brains to seek quick hits of information. As a result, our ability to focus on deep, complex tasks for an extended period has suffered.
Reduced critical thinking:
Screens often present us with pre-packaged information, leaving little room for critical thinking and analysis. People are becoming more passive consumers of information, relying on algorithms to curate their content and reinforce existing beliefs.
Memory challenges:
When we know that information is just a few clicks away, we are less likely to commit it to memory. Our reliance on search engines and digital notes can lead to memory atrophy.
Social skills erosion:
Excessive screen time can hinder our face-to-face social skills. Engaging in real-world conversations and reading non-verbal cues are essential for emotional intelligence, which may decline in screen-heavy environments.
What can be done?
With these potential problems, what can be done to address them? Droujkova and Nash recommend:
Scheduling
Establish screen-free zones and periods within the home. This could be during meals or before bedtime. Jim Nash suggests, “These breaks can help reset our brains, refocus our attention, and reinforce our relationships”.
Digital literacy
Learn and encourage digital literacy. Use screens for purposeful, educational, and creative activities. Digital tools effectively utilized can enhance learning and thinking abilities.
Physical activity
Make time for physical activity daily. Regular exercise can counteract some of the negatives of screen time. “Exercise gets blood flowing to the brain, promoting cognitive function,” Nash advises.
Interaction
Encourage real-life social interactions. It could be as simple as making conversations during dinner or participating in group activities.
Assessment
So, are screens making us dumber? The answer is not as clear-cut as ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Scrolling endlessly, consuming meaningless content – sure, that’s not helping. Being selective, engaging deeper, transforming passive consumption into active learning – certainly the scales tip to a smarter you.
Maria Droujkova, a mathematician and education consultant at Geonode, opines, “Screens offer a wealth of tools for engaging, creating, and sharing clear, deep, and meaningful ideas. Using these tools well doesn’t make us dumber but smarter. This sense of information empowerment can breed inspiration and creativity.”
In other words, we have a responsibility to interrogate and enhance how we interact with screens.
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