In today's digital world, people often juggle different types of communication, including using a smartphone or computer while talking to someone next to them. Although this can lead to distraction, a new study from New York State University's Binghamton University reveals that 'communicative multitasking' has potential benefits – if done right. We used Forefront to expand.
The study, published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior Reports, looked at how parallel communication affects work and learning environments. The researchers, led by teaching assistant Jinglu Jiang, focused on the ways in which people manage their divided attention across different types of communication at the same time, rather than assuming that attention would be impaired.
Previous studies have linked communicative divided attention with distractions and deficits in performing tasks. However, this study reveals that parallel communication does not always inhibit activities if it is directly related to the main task. In other words, if the digital communication we carry out is related to the main activity in which we are taking part at the time – a meeting, a lesson, etc. – it can be used to integrate relevant information received in real time.
For example, listening to a lecture while reading related online materials can be more effective than trying to follow two unrelated content on two screens at the same time. If parallel communication activities complement each other, they allow people to dive deeper into the subject from different perspectives.
The study also found that clear expectations are important when communicating with others. For example, setting boundaries and explaining the purpose of parallel communication reduces critical perceptions about the apparent rudeness of divided attention. Principals, teachers, etc. need to clarify when parallel communication is acceptable and when it will be considered an unnecessary distraction, and which employees or students need to find a balance in the distribution of attention.
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