How to Combat Distractions from Technology While Studying

By Sophia Boxwell

In the age of technology, studying should be simpler, right? One may think modern technology would increase students’ academic success, but that is not the case. Dr. Saro Mohammed from the Brookings Institution explains how he does not believe we should invest more money in technology for schools (Bridging digital divides between schools and communities). After speaking to Lauren Kadel, the associate director of student success and retention at Jefferson, I learned that algorithms are made to keep you engaged, so it is understandable that students are addicted to their technology. A survey was done with twenty students, asking them about their study habits, and the results may be relatable to students. 

Mohammed explains in his study for adolescent and young adult students that technology has been associated with attention deficits, hyperactivity, loneliness, lower grades, and a lack of multitasking (Bridging digital divides between schools and communities). When using technology, students’ brains may become overwhelmed due to the sheer amount of applications, tabs, and assignments presented in front of them. This may make studying difficult for students, therefore leading to lower grades. If that’s surprising to you, this point is also reflected in my survey. 

In the survey, twenty college students were asked a series of questions about their study habits. The students were from all spheres of education, with a series of majors including accounting, design, communications, nursing, psychology, and more. There was also an age range from sophomores to juniors, seniors, and graduate students. When asked how they choose to study, 65% of these students mentioned online studying. Some of these methods included Quizlet, YouTube videos, and PowerPoint. This statistic is extremely interesting because 65% of these students also reported having trouble studying. When proposed, the question is, why is it so difficult for you to study? Over 70% of the students attributed their struggle to having difficulty focusing.

"Over 70% of the students attributed their struggle to having difficulty focusing."

A few students mentioned technology directly, explaining that their phones and other applications are often distracting. Students feel the urge to go on their phones or move to a separate computer tab. Some other reasons for their struggles were having too much energy and different learning styles. These results support Dr. Mohammed’s claims. The survey shows results of hyperactivity in students, a lack of multitasking, and attention deficits. If we see these results within a small group of students, the results may be amplified in a worldwide study. I gained some insight from Lauren Kadel on combatting the lack of focus. 

Kadel suggests: 

1. Taking advantage of any tutoring resources available while at school. 

2. ‘Mono-tasking,’ which is tasking yourself with one thing at a time 

3. Put your phone face down or in another room. 

4. If you take a break to check your phone, know when to put it down. 

5. Only have the tabs you need for one assignment open at a time. 

6. Study with friends so you do not feel lonely while studying

In the age of technology, the use of it is inevitable. Results show that technology has a negative effect on students. Students may struggle to focus and study, so we must use our resources and listen to any tips professionals may have to help with the struggle.