Recent studies in cognitive psychology have challenged the traditional view that multitasking enhances productivity. Researchers such as Ophir and colleagues (2009) found that individuals who frequently engage in multiple media streams simultaneously perform worse on tasks requiring focused attention and memory retention. This phenomenon, termed 'media multitasking,' appears to impair the brain's ability to filter irrelevant information, leading to increased cognitive load and reduced efficiency. Furthermore, neural imaging studies suggest that chronic multitaskers exhibit altered activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region associated with executive control. While some argue that multitasking is a necessary skill in modern workplaces, empirical evidence indicates that task-switching incurs a 'switching cost,' resulting in slower performance and more errors. Consequently, experts recommend 'single-tasking' as a more effective strategy for complex problem-solving, advocating for structured intervals of deep work without digital interruptions.
❓ What is the main finding of the research mentioned in the passage?
A. A) Multitasking improves productivity in most workplace settings.
B. B) Frequent media multitasking is linked to poorer attention and memory performance.
C. C) The prefrontal cortex is unaffected by chronic multitasking.
D. D) Task-switching has no measurable impact on speed or accuracy.
✅ 正确答案
B) Frequent media multitasking is linked to poorer attention and memory performance.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
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