How Deeply Does Media and Technology Usage Affect the Sustained Attention?

Abstract

Sustained attention, a fundamental function of attention, also plays an important role in determining the effectiveness of other aspects of attention, such as selective attention, divided attention, and general cognitive capacity. Effective recognition, learning, and memory cannot be achieved in a learning process that does not involve sustained attention. This study, therefore, aims to define the relationships between the sustained attention level of students in higher education and their media and technology usage behaviors. This study of 198 university students was designed using quantitative methodology. A computerized sustained attention test (~65 hours) and the media and technology usage scale were used as data collection tools. According to the findings, there is a significant relationship between sustained attention levels and playing multi-user games. With the data obtained from this research, it is aimed to create a roadmap based on learner characteristics in order to define user profiles and customize designs accordingly.