I just found this great description of our perception of “multi-tasking” at work, particularly the practice of using a Blackberry to check emails and whatever while others are present, such as during a meeting:
I often hear this rationalization: It’s a way to multitask and increase efficiency. But neuroscientists tell us that dividing our attention between competing stimuli instead of handling tasks one at a time actually makes us less efficient.
Still, the illusion that multitasking can aid productivity is powerful. And it’s abetted by the fact that splitting our attention between real and virtual worlds can produce a kind of neural intoxication, research shows.
Through our devices, we find a way to disappear without leaving the room. By splitting ourselves off and reaching out electronically, we fill empty interpersonal space and ignite our senses. We can find relief and a fleeting sense of freedom. [emphasis added]
June 2nd, 2010 at 5:41 am
Anything to escape from meetings!
I find myself doing that with my iPhone. I have to make a conscious effort. I don’t ever bring it to meetings anyway because I find it rude, that’s not the issue. It’s at home, on the couch, and Jon is talking to me, but I am busy feeding my fish or Facebooking and don’t even realize he’s talking.
Unless of course he is on his Blackberry at the same time.
I try to just leave it in my purse when I’m home now.