Driven to Distraction

Abstract

The Problem An uncertain economy with a highly mobile workforce compels employers to rely heavily on HRD research for empirically based selection criteria and proven predictors of job performance. One of those predictors is the ability to think analytically and critically. Evidence is mounting that heavy use of electronic media may impact the ability to think critically because of increased distractibility and inattention to work related tasks. The Solution Collaborative research with medical and educational communities is needed to correlate impacts of heavy electronic media usage to critical thinking and, if confirmed, develop critical thinking measures and curricula that strengthen critical thinking skills in children and young adults entering the workforce. The Stakeholders Confirming the effects of heavy electronic media on critical thinking will increase the body of research for medical professionals about brain functioning, inform education researchers about trends in student populations experiencing lower test scores, and provide HRD researchers information about developing engaged and productive employees.