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In defense of multitasking: how to do it the right way

Multitasking: is it actually a good thing? Scientific research suggests there are ways to manage multiple tasks effectively. 

You sit down at your computer to get some work done—which often involves feverishly clicking back and forth between your inbox and whatever project is in front of you. You halfheartedly peruse your social media accounts while you’re in a meeting. You participate in a conference call while making your morning commute. You brush your teeth while reading that late-night email from your boss.

Sound familiar? For most of us, the average workday involves a heck of a lot of multitasking.

Unless you’ve been actively tuning out all productivity advice for the past several years, you’re likely already aware of the fact that your affinity to do multiple things at once is sending your productivity levels into a nosedive. Recent studies claim that multitasking can decrease your productivity by a whopping 40%.

But, here’s the thing: We all still do it. For instance, writing this article also involves listening to a podcast and repeatedly throwing the world’s most obnoxious squeaky toy for my terrier mutt.

So, with that in mind, why do we all fall victim to the siren song of multitasking? And, if we’re all guilty of it, can it really be all that bad?

The Difference Between Multitasking and Task Switching

While you’ll hear the term “multitasking” thrown around a lot in various research and scientific studies, it’s not always used in the correct way.

“You really can’t focus on multiple tasks at once, with the exception of automatic tasks such as digesting or breathing,” claims Susan Weinschenk, Ph.D., CEO and Chief Behavioral Scientist at The Team W .

Instead, many of the multitasking warnings you’ve likely read actually refer to the concept of “task switching.” “Task switching refers to switching your attention from one thing to another. You might be switching between two tasks, or even more,” adds Weinschenk.

Take checking your email while you also compile a report, for example. That process is frequently referred to as multitasking—but, you’re not actually doing both of those things at the same time. Rather, you’re rapidly bouncing back and forth between them like a ping pong ball. Your inbox gets your attention for a couple of seconds, before you turn your focus back to the document you’re working on.

Ultimately, it’s that frantic switching of gears (and not truly doing two things at once) that raises so many warning bells for psychologists and productivity experts. “Every time you switch, it uses up time and glucose in the brain,” explains Weinschenk. Glucose is the brain’s main source of energy —it’s what keeps us alert and focused.

So, deplete your glucose through too much task switching, and you’ll be left feeling tired, stressed, and frazzled by the end of your workday.

Plus, that frequent flip flopping is just plain counterproductive. “There are transaction costs,” shares Laura Vanderkam, author of What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast , “You lose time on every transition between activities.”

Can Multitasking Ever Be a Good Thing?

So, here’s what we know so far: Hopping back and forth between tasks and internet browser tabs is destroying your productivity. But, what about the pure form of doing two or more things at once? As a self-proclaimed expert multitasker (patting my head while rubbing my stomach is my go-to party trick), I still wasn’t completely convinced that combining certain tasks is an undisputably awful idea.

Sure enough, multitasking in and of itself isn’t inherently bad. “We all do it many times each day. It’s part of our adaptive process to what is going on around us,” adds Weinschenk.

There are a few interesting facts out there that seem to infer that multitasking isn’t always a terrible thing.

1. Multitasking Can Improve Performance

In today’s constantly-connected society, media multitasking is huge. For example, you listen to music while you do your work. Or, you online shop on your phone while you wind down in front of the television in the evening.

Many researchers assert that this media overload can be bad for you. But, one experiment found that this obsession with media multitasking can actually be beneficial.

In this study conducted by Kelvin Lui and Alan Wong at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 63 participants were asked to complete a visual search test. They needed to identify a particular shape on a computer screen full of similar images—all of which were changing color.

To throw a surprise in the mix, the researchers would play a tone during select tests that made no indication of the shape’s location, but did indicate the exact moment when that target shape changed color.

The results? Participants who media multitasked most frequently were far more effective at multi sensory integration. In simpler terms, the occurrence of the random tone didn’t hinder them at all. Quite the opposite—it helped them identify the target shape more quickly.

“It appears that their ability to routinely take in information from a number of different sources made it easier for them to use the unexpected auditory signal in the task with tone, leading to a large improvement in performance in the presence of the tone,” says the recap of the study .

But, what about multitasking that doesn’t relate to media intake at all?

A 2015 study conducted at the University of Florida shares similar support for the multitasking phenomenon. Participants were asked to sit on exercise bikes and pedal at a speed they found comfortable for two minutes.

After that, they pedaled again—with a screen in front of them that presented twelve different cognitive tests at varying levels of difficulty. Then, they were asked to complete the same cognitive tests while seated in a chair.

The results surprised even the researchers. Not only did participants not do any worse on the tests when they were on the bike—they actually pedaled 25% faster. So, multitasking had no dire effects on their cognitive function. Even better, it improved their physical performance.

2. Multitasking Can “Deepen” Your Time

“There’s a nice form of multitasking, which I tend to think of more as ‘alignment’,” shares Vanderkam, “This means deepening time, not fragmenting it.”

Vanderkam cites exercising with a friend as a solid example. “You’re running, but you’re also talking and nurturing your relationship at the same time. That’s good multitasking,” she says. Peter Bregman mentions a similar use of time in his article for Forbes , where he discusses how he managed to successfully combine exercise with his commute to work.

The secret to using multitasking to make better use of your time ultimately lies in finding tasks that don’t cause a huge amount of conflict with each other—like the above exercise examples.

“In other words, you can multitask as long as you’re doing two things that don’t tax the same parts of your brain,” explains Bregman, “Email while on a conference call? Bad idea. But exercise and commuting? It’s a perfect multitasking marriage.”

Research exists to support Bregman’s claim. In a study published in Psychological Science (Vol. 12, No. 2) by Eric H. Schumacher, Ph.D. of the University of California, Berkeley, three different experiments concluded that people can indeed do two different tasks at once—particularly those that are practiced and don’t physically conflict with one another—without much interference.

So, in those sorts of special circumstances, multitasking can actually serve to maximize your time, rather than destroy it.

“The secret to using multitasking to make better use of your time ultimately lies in finding tasks that don’t cause a huge amount of conflict with each other.”

The Dichotomy of Multitasking: Should You or Shouldn’t You?

Where do you go from here? Should you continue to give into the temptation of multitasking, or do your best to zone in on one task at a time?

Well, it depends on whether you’re referring to task switching or true multitasking.

Based on all of the research, one thing is for certain: Task switching, or frequently flipping back and forth between different to-dos, is bad. It depletes your mental resources, wastes time, and will leave you feeling spread too thin.

Multitasking, however, can have some merit. While you’ve likely heard that it’s physically impossible to do two things at once, that rule really only applies to tasks that require the same cognitive resources. It’s difficult to write an email while simultaneously talking to a colleague, for example.

But, if you can find ways to combine two tasks that are different enough—think listening to an educational podcast while making your commute, practicing for a presentation while getting your miles in on the treadmill, or brainstorming article ideas while doing the dishes—multitasking can actually serve to benefit both you and your productivity levels.

Take that, multitasking naysayers.

Next: Why “Hurry Worry” Is Plaguing Your Team’s Productivity

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Wondering how to multitask? Regardless of your profession, juggling simultaneous tasks is inevitable. Multitasking can help you accomplish more things with less time, making your work efforts go further.

In today’s work landscape, adept multitasking holds paramount importance. As remote work surges and employees are taking on more tasks than ever, multi tasking can help you refine your skills and accomplish your ever-growing list of tasks.

Key Takeaways:

When multitasking, its important to do similar tasks together to avoid making any mistakes.

You should keep distractions to a minimum when multitasking because it takes 100% of your focus.

It’s important to know your limits to multitasking and don’t push yourself to a burnout.

What is “multitasking skills”?

10 tips to boost your multitasking ability, examples of multitasking at work, common issues with multitasking, how to multitask effectively at work faq, final thoughts.

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Multitasking, like it sounds, is the act of working on multiple tasks simultaneously. That’s the commonly-held definition, anyway. In reality, the human brain is incapable of multitasking and instead, tends to rapidly shift between tasks.

A common interview question might ask you to describe your experience with multitasking, or an interviewer may ask how do you manage needing to multitask.

When and how you multitask depends on what sort of work you do, but the chances are that you’ve multitasked, or regularly multitask at your job. You can probably think of several examples from your personal life where you multitask frequently.

When done well, multitasking can be a real asset in your professional life. However, it requires the ability to juggle and prioritize tasks while warding off distractions and low-priority issues.

Not every situation calls for multitasking. For example, you shouldn’t be responding to emails while you’re meeting a new client for the first time.

Still, many employees already deal with juggling multiple tasks every day. We’re here to show you how to optimize your multitasking capabilities to maximize results:

Prioritize and plan. The first step to any successful multitasking session is having a solid plan in place. Write out what you have to do, then rank each task based on importance and urgency. Prioritize the high-importance, high-urgency tasks.

Multitasking is not something you can start doing blindly. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail, or as the saying goes. Try to arrange your schedule so you can perform similar tasks in tandem (more on that below).

Keep your to-do list prominent. Don’t just make a to-do list and then forget about it or bury it somewhere in your many open tabs. Write it out and keep it somewhere prominent where you don’t have to go out of your way to look at it.

Stay organized. This is related to the above tips, but incorporating organization into all facets of your work will create the foundation on which multitasking can succeed.

Multitasking requires your undivided attention and spending even a few extra seconds locating a file or finding a pen multiple times a day can really add up.

Work on similar tasks together. The big issues with multitasking that we summed up above often stem from the fact that the brain cannot process wildly different pieces of information or tasks simultaneously.

Since your brain is rapidly shifting between tasks, minimize the cognitive load that it takes by bundling related or similar tasks together. Your short-term memory has its limits, so be a friend to yourself and plan your multitasking sessions to accommodate that fact.

Iterate and measure results. We’re giving general advice here, but there’s no better way to test your multitasking capabilities than with an empirical test. Try bundling some tasks together into multitasking sessions, and record how long it takes to get everything done.

Then, try performing those tasks one at a time. Compare the total time it took in both instances to see if multitasking saved you any time. Don’t be surprised if it doesn’t at first – like any skill, multitasking takes practice to perfect.

Cut distractions. Multitasking sessions require 100% of your focus. You can’t have colleagues coming to ask you unexpected questions or personal texts blowing up your phone. Have a set “do not disturb” time that your colleagues (or family/roommates, if you’re working from home) are aware of.

Be aware of what’s distracting and what isn’t for you. Some people enjoy a bit of office chatter in the background or blaring tunes; whatever floats your boat.

But social media, your phone, and random interruptions from coworkers are distractions for just about everyone.

Leave time for review. Multitasking is great for getting into your work’s nitty-gritty and getting stuff done. It’s not great from an executive , big-picture level though, as multitaskers tend to get caught up in the trees and miss the forest more than most.

What’s worse, we tend to forget more when we multitask; getting information into your memory banks is a task in itself, and one your brain doesn’t have time for when you’re juggling multiple other things already.

Take some time every day to review what you’ve gone over and remind yourself of long-term goals and priorities. That way, you can be sure your multitasking didn’t produce any errors.

Take breaks. There’s a reason we have to sleep every night – your mind and body need downtime to recharge and get back to 100%. It’s best to have a loose schedule for your breaks.

The Pomodoro technique is one popular work/break option and stipulates that a 15-minute break every hour (more or less) is good for overall productivity.

Know your limits. Those who multitask regularly are at higher risk of burnout. Recognize and accept your limits. Don’t try to multitask 40 hours a week (or anywhere even close to that), or you’ll likely end up mentally fried in no time.

Some personality types just aren’t built for multitasking and there’s nothing wrong with that. If you get your work done best when you can focus on one thing at a time, lean into that method, and ensure you find a job/work environment that best suits your style.

Share the load. Luckily, companies are composed of more than one individual. When you’re planning and prioritizing your day, think about how your team can help complete their given tasks most efficiently. Leverage other people’s strengths and cover for others’ weaknesses.

This might apply more to those who work in a supervisory capacity, but depending on how democratic your team is, think of ways to share the load in a way that makes sense.

Consider the following everyday situation to help get a sense of how to multitask efficiently:

Signing for a package while greeting a customer

Responding to emails while talking on the phone

Writing a report while inputting data from the report

Troubleshooting and writing code simultaneously

Analyzing customer feedback while reaching out to a customer

Serving drinks and calculating a tab at the same time

Preparing several food orders at once

Updating your team on Slack as you work on a project

Checking emails during a morning standup meeting

Researching health plans while drafting a budget

Taking notes while listening to a presentation

Teaching students while handing out assignments

Checking out customers while bagging their items

Discussing a project on a conference call while analyzing the project data

Responding to emails while listening to a podcast or music

So, multitasking is a magic bullet that lets you get more done in the same amount of time, right? Well, science on the topic suggests otherwise. Let’s examine some significant issues with multitasking:

The brain can’t truly multi task. As we alluded to earlier, the brain isn’t actually capable of multitasking the way a computer is. Instead, we’re rapidly shifting between tasks in imperceptible amounts of time, leading us to believe that the two (or more) tasks are happening simultaneously.

More mistakes. Attempting to multitask can result in more errors – that’s why texting and driving is a big no-no. Studies have shown that an entrepreneur ’s productivity also falls significantly when handling more complex tasks simultaneously.

Lost time. Ironically, multitasking can also result in lost time, as the short time spent switching your attention back-and-forth adds up.

Risk of burnout. Burnout is a workplace phenomenon that’s more likely to manifest if you take on too much at once. Since multitasking is all about completing as much as you can at the same time, it’s easy to see that the risk of burnout goes way up when you multitask regularly.

Nothing gets your full attention. When you’re rapidly cycling between multiple tasks, there’s no way to give each task the attention it’s due. This can lead to the errors discussed above.

Lack of priorities. This isn’t always the case (more on that in our tips for effective multitasking below), but it’s harder to appropriately prioritize your workload when you multitask.

So is multitasking a myth? Kind of – it’s more of time-sharing and rapidly-shifting attention.

Should you forget about the practice entirely? We don’t think so. There are plenty of ways to get multiple things done at once without hurting your results.

Is multitasking suitable for all types of tasks?

Not all tasks are ideal for multitasking. Simple and routine tasks can be combined effectively, but complex or cognitive-demanding tasks may suffer in quality and accuracy when multitasked. It’s important to assess the nature of each task before deciding to multitask.

How can I prioritize tasks when multitasking?

Prioritizing tasks is key to successful multitasking. Categorize tasks based on urgency and importance. Start with high-priority items to ensure critical goals are met. Also, consider task complexity and time required when deciding which tasks to tackle simultaneously.

What strategies can I use to enhance my multitasking skills?

To improve multitasking abilities, consider techniques such as time blocking, creating task lists, setting specific time limits for each task, and leveraging digital tools like productivity apps. Additionally, practice mindfulness to stay focused and minimize distractions, enhancing your multitasking efficiency.

Even if true “human multitasking” isn’t really attainable, the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities at once is an attractive quality in a job candidate and employee.

Be wary of the downsides of multitasking as you keep our tips in mind, and we’re sure you’ll be juggling more balls than a circus performer in no time.

American Psychological Association – Multitasking: Switching costs

University of Southern California – Are There Benefits of Multitasking?

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Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

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Some 2.5 percent of people are thought to be supertaskers — people who excel at multitasking. And we can use some of their strategies to boost our own skills, says psychiatrist Srini Pillay.

When you need to respond to an email while you’re on the telephone, you have to read, write and listen at the same time. Frequently, however, your brain can do only one task at a time properly. It’s as if there’s one checkpoint, and tasks that need to be done have to arrange themselves in a single file in your brain.

When many tasks try to squeeze through a bottleneck, the results can be disastrous. Think of driving from an on-ramp onto a jam-packed highway. That’s what every new thought faces. It slows down, and eventually the brain becomes a parking lot for thoughts. That’s when you drop the multitasking, when instead you should see this as a signal to switch to the mode that I call “supertasking.”

Supertasking is like switching over to a juggler’s mindset. A juggler does not have to think hard about making each catch and throw — her unconscious plays a greater role in her thinking, allowing her to be more flexible when needed. In 2015, UCSF neuroscientist Omar Al-Hashimi and his colleagues examined how certain people’s brains overcome bottlenecks — how they deftly switch brain lanes and somehow find a way through. They used the video game NeuroRacer, in which players perform single tasks and then work up to multi-component tasks. For example, players have to keep a car within a target box while also responding to various road signals; the signals increase in number as the game gets harder. As the number of things players have to pay attention to increases, an information bottleneck is created in their brains.

Some of the players had superior multitasking performance. They had faster response times, made fewer errors, and were more accurate. The researchers noted that the superior parietal lobule (SPL) was key, helping them quickly switch between tasks by loosening the grip of focus. The SPL also efficiently manages brain resources by keeping things for a longer time in short-term memory so that the person can, effectively, pick up where they left off more easily.

Unfocusing on your separate goals and tinkering with them to see which ones can be combined will decongest your bottleneck in the short term.

One way to reduce bottlenecks is through redundancy reduction — combining one or more tasks to save time. If your day’s tasks include picking up a friend and going to a supermarket near that friend’s house, you focus and notice their commonality — both require you to drive through the same neighborhood. Even though stopping to consciously think through ways to reduce redundancies might take time at first, taking the step of unfocusing on your separate goals and tinkering with them to see which ones can be combined will decongest your bottleneck in the short term. With practice, it becomes much more automatic.

You can also integrate the tasks on your to-do list and manage bottlenecks. I witnessed this kind of cognitive flexibility in action while having dinner at a friend’s home. As I stood with her in the kitchen, I watched her put a casserole in the oven, put leftover roast chicken and vegetables in a frying pan on the stovetop, fry some bacon, and warm up leftover mashed potatoes in the microwave. She did all this while talking to me and attending to her daughter, who came in intermittently to ask some oddly (but nonetheless charming) existential questions.

Cool, calm and collected, my friend got into the rhythm of each action, not doing one thing at a time but starting and stopping at will. I could see her cognitive wheels turning. The casserole went in first. Intermittently, she checked on it and changed the oven temperature when she needed to. Halfway there, she put the chicken and vegetables in a pan over medium heat. She left them for about ten minutes, turning them every now and then. A few minutes before everything was ready, she put the bacon on.

When I finally saw the roast chicken, bacon, mashed potatoes, vegetables and casserole on my plate, I realized that she was the bottleneck master. In and out, back and forth, tinker and wait — cognitive rhythm saved the day. She smoothly switched between tasks in a way made possible not just by practice but by being willing to leave things halfway in the process and then return to them.

Without feedback, your brain loses track of its own results. That makes multitasking more difficult.

You need to be flexible and go back and forth between multiple things without obsessing about completing each thing first. Although my friend’s dinner came together swiftly, she would not have cooked the food so well had she not continuously sought feedback — prodding the chicken, checking on the casserole. Without feedback, your brain loses track of its own results. That makes multitasking more difficult.

But it turns out that the scope of feedback that you allow yourself to consider is meaningful. Cognitive science researcher Hansjörg Neth of University of Konstanz, Germany, and his colleagues compared local and global feedback in the context of multitasking. They used a computer program called Tardast, aptly named after the Persian term for “juggler,” to investigate multitasking behavior, complex system management, and constant supervision.

During the experiment, the researchers presented the participants with 10 trials via a computer screen. For each five-minute trial, the participants had to manage six tasks. Performing a “task” meant pressing a button to fill up a vertical white bar with black. Pressing the button raised the level, while releasing the button caused the level to fall. The participants’ goal was to get the black to rise to the highest level within each vertical bar. They had to press the button quickly to get the level to rise, and they could press buttons only one at a time and in quick sequence. But some bars were more difficult to fill than others, and all the bars increased and decreased at different speeds. After each five-minute trial, participants received feedback on how they had done.

The researchers found any feedback improved multitasking, but local feedback (how the person did on the last trial) was superior to global feedback (how they had done all day). In the kitchen, as my friend cooked dinner and prodded the chicken to check for doneness, she was getting feedback that helped her determine how much longer to cook it. Had she prodded it and then considered all her previous prods, she would have gotten caught up in feedback analysis. As it happened, her quest for feedback was not deep or far-reaching. She kept her mind on the present texture of the chicken and moved on. And that served her (and me) well.

Don’t just take it for granted that your brain is updating information as you go — stop and think about what you just did and how it relates to what you have to do next.

Without feedback, your brain gets overwhelmed. If you feel like you have a billion things to do in the course of a day, dipping into conscious feedback is a way of taking stock. Don’t just take it for granted that your brain is updating information as you go along. Give it local feedback — stop and think about what you just did and how it relates to what you have to do next. This momentary period of unfocus will allow you to tinker with your approach to make it better.

But asking the right questions — ones that bring local feedback to bear — is key. The ER physician who is inundated with trauma-related procedures might say to herself, “Three down, seven to go.” That is global feedback, an emphasis on the full day’s work. Or she might say, “That last one went well,” which is local feedback, emphasizing just the last task. The ER doctor who gets a little more specific with her local feedback — “That last one went well, but next time make sure all the dried blood has been cleared so there’s not even a speck before you suture” — allows her work to improve. Taking time to give this feedback may stop the flow of her work in the short term, but it allows her to tinker with the lineup of sutures so that each successive one is better yet requires that much less conscious brainpower the next time.

When you practice thinking this way, it trains your brain for supertasking. And when you’re in supertasking mode, your brain helps you remember half-completed tasks while you move on so that you can return to them. It helps you remember not to leave something on the stove when the phone rings. It also helps you re-strategize about pending goals as you go along.

Excerpted with permission from the new book Tinker, Dabble, Doodle, Try: Unlocking the Power of the Unfocused Mind by Srini Pillay. Published by Ballantine Books, an imprint and division of Penguin Random House LLC, New York. Copyright © 2017 by Srini Pillay. All rights reserved.

Watch the  TEDxRockCreekPark  from Srini Pillay here:

About the author

Srini Pillay is a psychiatrist, brain-imaging researcher and a brain-based technology innovator. Currently an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, he is also an invited faculty member in the executive education programs at Harvard Business School and Duke University Business School. He is the founder and CEO of NeuroBusiness Group, an executive coaching, consulting, and technology firm. His previous book, “Life Unlocked: 7 Revolutionary Lessons to Overcome Fear,” won a Books for a Better Life Award.

• book excerpt
• business advice
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The Effect of Multitasking During an E-learning Video Conference on Learning Performance: A Psychophysiological Experiment

• Conference paper
• First Online: 16 June 2022
• Cite this conference paper

• Rosetta Chang 9 ,
• Constantinos K. Coursaris 9 ,
• Pierre-Majorique Léger 9 &
• Sylvain Sénécal 9  

Part of the book series: Lecture Notes in Computer Science ((LNCS,volume 13328))

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Due to the pandemic-induced mobility restrictions, time spent in front of a device, videoconferencing, and, in particular, e-learning increased significantly. Zoom and other video conferencing applications will continue to be part of our everyday life as organizations decide to continue to work remotely in the years to come. Multitasking has been long researched, however, due to the pandemic, it has prompted the need to investigate multitasking in contexts where the primary task is to attend an e-learning video conference session. In general, there has been limited research on the effects of multitasking in remote settings. Moreover, most studies on multitasking have involved the use of diaries or self-reported testimonies for data collection. To fill the abovementioned theoretical void and methodological limitation, we collect physiological data to better understand how task volume and visual attention in a multitasking setting affect learning performance during an e-learning video conference session. Results suggest that multitasking does not affect information retention but it does affect users’ perceived information retention. The practical implications discussed are important for the education sector, as well as, and more broadly, for organizations using video conferencing to communicate and collaborate, as they help explain how multitasking behaviors may affect work productivity and performance.

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Chang, R., Coursaris, C.K., Léger, PM., Sénécal, S. (2022). The Effect of Multitasking During an E-learning Video Conference on Learning Performance: A Psychophysiological Experiment. In: Zaphiris, P., Ioannou, A. (eds) Learning and Collaboration Technologies. Designing the Learner and Teacher Experience. HCII 2022. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 13328. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05657-4_14

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Explicating multitasking with computers: Gratifications and situations

This study tries to test the theory of uses and gratifications and the theory of situated action as explanations of multitasking in computer-mediated communication. Based on the data collected from an online survey (N = 234), we find that as hypothesized, different gratifications and situations are connected to different types of multitasking in different ways. In particular, multimedia and work-related multitasking are primarily driven by instrumental gratifications whereas affective gratifications contribute to multimedia and interaction type of multitasking. Situational factors have less powerful influence compared to gratifications. However, there are clear differences that discern types of computer multitasking along the situational dimension.

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Multitasking

Oct 31, 2014

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Multitasking. Intro. Multitasking refers to an operating system in which multiple process , also called tasks , can execute on a single computer seemingly simultaneously and without interfering with each other.

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Intro.. • Multitasking refers to an operating system in which multiple process, also called tasks, can execute on a single computer seemingly simultaneously and without interfering with each other. That is, each process has the illusion that it is the only process on the computer and that it has exclusive access to all the services of the operating system. www.themegallery.com

Intro… • The concurrently running processes can represent different programs, different parts of a single program and different instance of a single program. The total number of processes (or programs) that can run on the system at any time depends on several factors including the size of the memory, the speed of the CPU (central processing unit) and the size of the programs. www.themegallery.com

Intro… • All processes are fully protected from each other, just as the kernel (i.e., the core of an operating system) on a well-designed system is protected from all processes, so that a crash (i.e., a halt to functioning) in one process or program will not cause another program or the entire system to crash. However, processes communicate with each other when necessary. www.themegallery.com

Intro… • The CPU (or CPUs if there are more than one) is continuously in demand by the typically numerous processes that are competing for its services. But because a CPU can execute only one process at a time, multitasking is accomplished through the use of a time slice technique that alternates its use at extremely high speeds among the various processes. www.themegallery.com

Intro… • In unitasking operating systems, such as MS-DOS, the CPU remains idle until the system resource that a process desires (such as a disk drive or printer) becomes available, thus wasting processor time and reducing system efficiency. In a multitasking system, however, multiple processes are retained in the main memory, which physically consists of RAM (i.e., random access memory) chips, so that whenever one process has to wait, the operating system can immediately allocate the CPU to other processes. www.themegallery.com

Origins of Multitasking   • Multitasking originated in the 1960s, when time sharing systems were developed to enable multiple users to share single, and very costly, mainframe computers. It soon became apparent that a similar technique could also be used to allow a single user to simultaneously run multiple application programs. The term time sharing was subsequently replaced by the more general term multitasking. • On early multitasking systems, groups of related application programs voluntarily relinquished the CPU to each other in what is referred to as cooperative multitasking. One disadvantages of that approach is that the scheduler cannot make system-wide decisions as to how long each process should run, which can result in the inefficient use of system resources. The scheduler is a part of the kernel that assigns priorities to processes in a priority queue. • Another disadvantage is that it can be more difficult to develop application programs for use on such operating systems. In addition, a poorly designed program or a crashed process can potentially crash the entire operating system because it could prevent a process from relinquishing the CPU to other processes. www.themegallery.com

Origins of Multitasking   • Thus, cooperative multitasking evolved into preemptive multitasking, in which the hardware can interrupt an executing process and instruct the CPU to execute a different section of code. Such a system does not need to rely on the voluntary relinquishing of processor time by individual processes. Rather, it can be set to preempt currently running processes and return control to the operating system, which can later restore each preempted process in exactly the same state where it was interrupted. Preemption is the involuntary suspension of some running processes so that other processes can be executed. www.themegallery.com

Origins of Multitasking   • Preemptive multitasking increases overall system efficiency by freeing up the CPU and other system resources when ordered to by the operating system on a time slice basis or a priority basis so that one application cannot monopolize system resources when they are needed by another program. It also permits the system to respond immediately to important external events, such as incoming data from a keyboard or network. Moreover, it simplifies the development of application programs and provides better program performance because processes can switch in and out of the processor with less overhead, i.e., with less and simpler code. Multitasking is particularly crucial for real time operating systems (such as are used in embedded systems), for which it is necessary to monitor and control multiple external activities with a single processor virtually instantaneously. Such systems employ a hierarchical interrupt mechanism together with prioritization of processes to ensure that specified types of activities are granted an immediate and adequate slice of processor time. www.themegallery.com

Multitasking in Linux • Today most major operating systems employ multitasking. Earlier versions of the Macintosh and Microsoft Windows used cooperative multitasking. Preemptive multitasking operating systems include Linux and other Unix-like systems, Microsoft Windows NT/2000/XP, Mac OS X and OS/2. • Unix-like operating systems were developed right from the start as preemptive multitasking and multi-user systems. These are among the features that have helped make them an extremely efficient and robust (as well as highly successful and long-lived) family of operating systems. (They are also multiprocessor operating systems, which means that they can make effective use of computers that have more than a single CPU.) www.themegallery.com

Multitasking in Linux • Multiple processes exist for virtually the entire duration of a Linux session, even if no user application programs are running. The only exception is a very brief period during booting (i.e., starting up of a computer), when init, which is the first process to be created on a newly booted system, has not yet spawned additional processes. • Multitasking can be easily observed in Unix-like operating systems when the X Window System (i.e., the standard system for managing GUIs on single computers and on networks of computers) is used. That is, multiple window can be simultaneously open on the display screen, each with an application program running independently of the others. The independence of these applications is evidenced by the fact that, as experienced Linux users are well aware, even if one of the applications crashes, it is very rare that it will cause other applications to malfunction or cause the system as a whole to crash (and thus require rebooting). www.themegallery.com

Multitasking in Linux • Main Multitasking Flow: www.themegallery.com

Multitasking in Linux • While not quite as obvious, especially to new users, multitasking is also occurring when a Unix-like system is operating in console (i.e., text only) mode. That is, different programs can be operating on different virtual consoles. Moreover, multiple programs can also operate on a single console or terminal window (i.e., a window in a GUI that emulates console mode) by having one program run in the foreground while others are running in the background. The full extent of processes currently residing on a can be seen by using ps command with its -a, -u and -x options, i.e., ps -aux | less • As the number of processes can be quite long and occupy more than a single screen, this command uses a pipe (represented by the vertical bar) to transfer the output of ps -aux to the less command so that that it can be viewed one screenful at a time. The list of processes can be advanced one screen forward by pressing the SPACE bar and one screen backward by pressing the b key. An alternative way to view the processes is with the pstree command, which presents them in a tree diagram. www.themegallery.com

Multitasking in Linux • Several instances of a single program may be visible in the output from either of these commands. If they are not, a simple way to start two instances of a single program is to open a second terminal window. This results in another shell process being started. Repeating the above command will then show the processes for both instances of bash (which is the default shell on Linux) or whatever shell is being used. www.themegallery.com

Reference.. • www.linfo.org. • http://tldp.org/HOWTO/KernelAnalysis-HOWTO-6.html. www.themegallery.com

Done.. www.themegallery.com

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151+ Computer Presentation Topics [Updated 2024]

For both professionals and fans, keeping up with the most recent developments and trends in the rapidly evolving field of technology is essential. One effective way to share and acquire knowledge is through computer presentations. 

Whether you are a seasoned presenter or someone looking to enhance your tech presentation skills, choosing the right topics is key to delivering a compelling and informative session. 

In this blog, we’ll explore various computer presentation topics, their relevance, and provide insights into tailoring presentations for different audiences and occasions.

How do you Tailor Topics According to Audience and Occasion?

Table of Contents

Tailoring topics according to the audience and occasion is a crucial aspect of delivering an effective and engaging presentation. Here are some strategies and considerations to help you customize your computer presentation topics based on your audience and the specific occasion:

• Know Your Audience
• Assess Knowledge Levels: Understand the expertise of your audience. Are they beginners, intermediate users, or experts in the field? This assessment will guide you in selecting the appropriate depth and complexity of your topics.
• Consider Backgrounds: Take into account the professional backgrounds, interests, and industries of your audience. Tailor your examples and case studies to resonate with their experiences.
• Identify Audience Needs and Goals:
• Address Pain Points: If possible, research or survey your audience to identify their challenges and pain points. Tailor your presentation to address these concerns, providing practical solutions and insights.
• Align with Goals: Understand the goals and objectives of your audience. Tailor your topics to align with their aspirations, whether it’s professional development, problem-solving, or staying updated on industry trends.
• Adapt to the Occasion:
• Event Type: Consider the type of event you are presenting at. Is it a conference, workshop, seminar, or a more informal gathering? The format and expectations of the event will influence your choice of topics.
• Time Constraints: Be mindful of the time allotted for your presentation. Tailor the scope and depth of your topics to fit within the designated time frame.
• Customize Content:
• Relevance to Industry: If your audience belongs to a specific industry, tailor your topics to address challenges and innovations relevant to that industry. Provide concrete examples and case studies that resonate with their professional experiences.
• Localize Examples: Consider the cultural context and geographic location of your audience. If possible, use examples and references that are familiar to them, making the content more relatable.
• Engage in Interactivity:
• Q&A Sessions: Plan for interactive sessions, allowing the audience to ask questions. This helps you gauge their interests and tailor your responses to address specific concerns.
• Polls and Surveys: Incorporate interactive elements such as polls or surveys to gather real-time feedback. Use the results to adjust your presentation on the fly if necessary.
• Provide Actionable Takeaways:
• Practical Applications: Tailor your topics to include practical applications and actionable takeaways. Ensure that your audience can apply the knowledge gained from your presentation in their professional or personal endeavors.
• Workshops and Demos: For hands-on sessions, tailor your topics to include workshops or live demonstrations. This enhances the learning experience and allows the audience to see practical implementations.
• Be Adaptable:
• Read the Room: Pay attention to the audience’s reactions during the presentation. Be adaptable and ready to adjust your approach based on their engagement levels and feedback.
• Flexibility in Content: Have backup content or supplementary materials that can be introduced based on audience interest or questions.

Software Development and Programming

• Trends in Programming Languages: A Comprehensive Overview
• Introduction to Python: Basics and Beyond
• Exploring the World of JavaScript Frameworks
• Best Practices in Software Development Methodologies
• The Evolution of Mobile App Development
• Low-Code Platforms: Revolutionizing Software Development
• The Impact of Microservices Architecture on Modern Applications
• DevOps Practices: Streamlining Development and Operations
• Code Review Techniques for Quality Assurance
• GUI vs. Command Line Interfaces: Pros and Cons

Emerging Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): An Introduction and Applications
• Machine Learning Algorithms: A Deep Dive
• The Role of Natural Language Processing (NLP) in AI
• Computer Vision: Applications and Challenges
• Internet of Things (IoT) and its Transformative Power
• Blockchain Technology: Beyond Cryptocurrencies
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Computing
• Edge Computing: Enhancing Network Performance
• Quantum Computing: A Glimpse into the Future
• 6G Technology: Enabling the Next Generation of Connectivity

Cybersecurity

• Cyber Threats: Types, Trends, and Prevention Strategies
• Ethical Hacking: Unveiling Security Vulnerabilities
• Biometric Security Systems: Enhancing Authentication
• Cryptography: Ensuring Secure Communication
• Security Measures for Computer Networks: A Practical Guide
• Privacy Concerns in the Digital Age: Safeguarding Information
• Incident Response Planning for Cybersecurity
• Cloud Security Best Practices
• Cybersecurity Awareness Training for Employees
• The Future of Cybersecurity: Emerging Challenges

Data Science and Big Data

• Introduction to Data Science: Concepts and Applications
• Data Analysis Techniques: From Descriptive to Predictive Analytics
• Big Data Technologies: Hadoop, Spark, and Beyond
• Data Warehousing: Storing and Retrieving Massive Datasets
• Data Visualization Tools: Making Sense of Complex Data
• Predictive Modeling in Business: Leveraging Data Insights
• Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data Integration
• Real-Time Analytics: Turning Data into Actionable Insights
• Data Ethics: Navigating the Challenges of Responsible Data Use
• Data-driven Decision Making in Organizations

Computer Hardware and Networking

• Latest Advancements in Computer Hardware
• The Role of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) in Modern Computing
• Networking Protocols: A Deep Dive into TCP/IP, UDP, and More
• Wireless Technologies: Wi-Fi 6 and Beyond
• Cloud Computing Models: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS Explained
• Edge Computing vs. Cloud Computing: Choosing the Right Approach
• Green Computing: Sustainable Practices in IT
• Quantum Computing and its Potential Impact on Industry
• 5G Technology: Revolutionizing Mobile Communication
• Wearable Technology: Integrating Computing into Everyday Life

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications

• AI in Healthcare: Transforming Diagnosis and Treatment
• AI in Finance: Applications and Risk Management
• AI in Customer Service: Enhancing User Experience
• AI in Education: Personalized Learning and Assessment
• AI in Autonomous Vehicles: Navigating the Future
• AI in Agriculture: Precision Farming and Crop Monitoring
• AI in Cybersecurity: Detecting and Preventing Threats
• AI in Natural Language Processing (NLP): Conversational Interfaces
• AI in Robotics: Innovations and Challenges
• AI in Retail: Personalized Shopping Experiences

Internet and Web Technologies

• Evolution of the Internet: From ARPANET to the Present
• Web Development Trends: Responsive Design and Progressive Web Apps
• Content Management Systems (CMS): Choosing the Right Platform
• E-commerce Platforms: Building Successful Online Stores
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Strategies for Web Visibility
• Cloud-based Web Hosting Solutions: Comparisons and Best Practices
• Web Accessibility: Designing Inclusive and User-Friendly Websites
• Social Media Integration: Enhancing Online Presence
• Web Security Best Practices: SSL, HTTPS, and Beyond
• The Future of the Internet: Trends and Predictions

Mobile Technologies

• Mobile Operating Systems: A Comparison of iOS and Android
• Mobile App Monetization Strategies: Ads, Subscriptions, and Freemium Models
• Cross-platform Mobile Development: Pros and Cons
• Mobile Payment Technologies: From NFC to Cryptocurrencies
• Mobile Health (mHealth) Applications: Improving Healthcare Access
• Location-based Services in Mobile Apps: Opportunities and Challenges
• Mobile Gaming Trends: Augmented Reality and Multiplayer Experiences
• The Impact of 5G on Mobile Applications
• Mobile App Testing: Ensuring Quality User Experiences
• Mobile Security: Protecting Devices and User Data

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

• User Experience (UX) Design Principles: Creating Intuitive Interfaces
• Usability Testing Methods: Evaluating the User-Friendliness of Products
• Interaction Design Patterns: Enhancing User Engagement
• Accessibility in Design: Designing for All Users
• Virtual Reality (VR) and User Experience: Design Considerations
• Gamification in User Interface Design: Enhancing Engagement
• Voice User Interface (VUI) Design: Building Natural Interactions
• Biometric User Authentication: Balancing Security and Convenience
• The Evolution of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs)
• Wearable Technology Design: Integrating Fashion and Functionality

Cloud Computing

• Cloud Service Models: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS Explained
• Cloud Deployment Models: Public, Private, and Hybrid Clouds
• Cloud Security Best Practices: Protecting Data in the Cloud
• Serverless Computing: Streamlining Application Development
• Cloud Computing in Business: Cost Savings and Scalability
• Cloud-Native Technologies: Containers and Orchestration
• Microservices Architecture in the Cloud: Breaking Down Monoliths
• Cloud Computing Trends: Edge Computing and Multi-cloud Strategies
• Cloud Migration Strategies: Moving Applications to the Cloud
• Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Enhancing Patient Care

Robotics and Automation

• Robotics in Manufacturing: Increasing Efficiency and Precision
• Autonomous Robots: Applications and Challenges
• Humanoid Robots: Advancements in AI-driven Robotics
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA): Streamlining Business Processes
• Drones in Industry: Surveillance, Delivery, and Beyond
• Surgical Robotics: Innovations in Medical Procedures
• Robotic Exoskeletons: Assisting Human Mobility
• Social Robots: Interacting with Humans in Various Settings
• Ethical Considerations in Robotics and AI
• The Future of Robotics: Trends and Predictions

Ethical Considerations in Technology

• Responsible AI: Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence
• Data Privacy Laws: Navigating Compliance and Regulations
• Bias in Algorithms: Addressing and Mitigating Unintended Consequences
• Ethical Hacking: Balancing Security Testing and Privacy Concerns
• Technology and Mental Health: Addressing Digital Well-being
• Environmental Impact of Technology: Green Computing Practices
• Open Source Software: Community Collaboration and Ethical Licensing
• Technology Addiction: Understanding and Combating Dependencies
• Social Media Ethics: Privacy, Fake News, and Cyberbullying
• Ethical Considerations in Biometric Technologies

Future Trends in Technology

• The Future of Computing: Quantum Computing and Beyond
• Edge AI: Bringing Intelligence to the Edge of Networks
• Biocomputing: Merging Biology and Computing
• Neurotechnology: Brain-Computer Interfaces and Cognitive Enhancement
• Sustainable Technologies: Innovations in Green Computing
• 7G and Beyond: Envisioning the Next Generation of Connectivity
• Space Technology and Computing: Exploring the Final Frontier
• Biohacking and DIY Tech: A Look into Citizen Science
• Tech for Social Good: Using Technology to Address Global Challenges
• The Convergence of Technologies: AI, IoT, Blockchain, and More

Miscellaneous Topics

• Technology and Education: Transforming Learning Experiences
• Digital Transformation: Strategies for Modernizing Businesses
• Tech Startups: Navigating Challenges and Achieving Success
• Women in Technology: Empowering Diversity and Inclusion
• The History of Computing: Milestones and Innovations
• Futuristic Interfaces: Brain-Computer Interfaces and Holography
• Tech and Art: Exploring the Intersection of Creativity and Technology
• Hackathons: Fostering Innovation in Tech Communities
• The Role of Technology in Disaster Management
• Exploring Careers in Technology: Opportunities and Challenges

Tips for Effective Computer Presentations

• Mastering the Art of Public Speaking in the Tech Industry
• Designing Engaging Visuals for Technical Presentations
• The Dos and Don’ts of Live Demonstrations in Tech Presentations
• Building a Compelling Narrative: Storytelling Techniques in Tech Talks
• Handling Q&A Sessions: Tips for Addressing Audience Questions
• Time Management in Tech Presentations: Balancing Content and Interaction
• Incorporating Humor in Technical Presentations: Dos and Don’ts
• Creating Interactive Workshops: Engaging Audiences in Hands-on Learning
• Leveraging Social Media for Tech Presentations: Tips for Promotion
• Continuous Learning in the Tech Industry: Strategies for Staying Informed

Case Studies and Real-World Applications

Real-world examples and case studies add practical relevance to computer presentations. Showcase successful projects, discuss challenges faced, and share lessons learned. 

Analyzing the impact of technology in real-world scenarios provides valuable insights for the audience and encourages a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Future Trends in Computer Presentation Topics

Predicting future trends in technology is both exciting and challenging. Presenters can offer insights into upcoming technological developments, anticipate challenges and opportunities, and encourage continuous learning in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Discussing the potential impact of technologies like 6G, augmented reality, or advancements in quantum computing sparks curiosity and keeps the audience abreast of the latest innovations.

In conclusion, computer presentations serve as powerful tools for knowledge sharing and skill development in the tech industry. Whether you’re presenting to novices or seasoned professionals, the choice of topics, presentation skills, and a thoughtful approach to ethical considerations can elevate the impact of your presentation. 

As technology continues to evolve, staying informed and exploring diverse computer presentation topics will be instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. 

Embrace the dynamic nature of technology and embark on a journey of exploration and enlightenment through engaging computer presentations.

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QS World University Rankings rates MIT No. 1 in 11 subjects for 2024

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QS World University Rankings has placed MIT in the No. 1 spot in 11 subject areas for 2024, the organization announced today.

The Institute received a No. 1 ranking in the following QS subject areas: Chemical Engineering; Civil and Structural Engineering; Computer Science and Information Systems; Data Science and Artificial Intelligence; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Linguistics; Materials Science; Mechanical, Aeronautical, and Manufacturing Engineering; Mathematics; Physics and Astronomy; and Statistics and Operational Research.

MIT also placed second in five subject areas: Accounting and Finance; Architecture/Built Environment; Biological Sciences; Chemistry; and Economics and Econometrics.

For 2024, universities were evaluated in 55 specific subjects and five broader subject areas. MIT was ranked No. 1 in the broader subject area of Engineering and Technology and No. 2 in Natural Sciences.

Quacquarelli Symonds Limited subject rankings, published annually, are designed to help prospective students find the leading schools in their field of interest. Rankings are based on research quality and accomplishments, academic reputation, and graduate employment.

MIT has been ranked as the No. 1 university in the world by QS World University Rankings for 12 straight years.

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• School of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences
• Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (eecs)
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