Recent studies in cognitive psychology have challenged the traditional view that multitasking enhances productivity. Researchers such as Ophir et al. (2009) found that individuals who frequently engage in multiple media streams simultaneously perform worse on tasks requiring sustained attention and memory retention. This phenomenon, termed 'media multitasking,' appears to impair the brain's ability to filter irrelevant information, leading to cognitive overload. Furthermore, subsequent experiments using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have shown reduced activation in the prefrontal cortex among heavy multitaskers when switching between tasks, suggesting a neural basis for their decreased efficiency. These findings imply that while multitasking may feel efficient, it often results in shallower processing of information and poorer overall performance, particularly in complex academic or professional settings. Consequently, educators and employers are increasingly advocating for 'single-tasking' strategies to optimize learning and productivity.
❓ According to the passage, what is a main consequence of media multitasking?
A. Improved ability to filter irrelevant information
B. Enhanced memory retention in academic settings
C. Reduced efficiency in tasks requiring focused attention
D. Increased activation in the prefrontal cortex during task switching
✅ 正确答案
Reduced efficiency in tasks requiring focused attention
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
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
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