Working memory task performance among media multitaskers

The current study explored the Working memory task performance of media multitaskers.  The storage i.e. memory and processes concerned with it i.e. working, is called working memory. Due to the availability and easy accessibility of the media technologies, the youth have been found to squeeze more media content simultaneity (Carrier et al., 2009; Rideout et al., 2010). Using several media types simultaneously, they engage in “media multitasking.” It is problematic due to its adverse consequences for cognitive control i.e. executive functioning (Wallis, 2010). For the purpose of the study, the sample comprised of 80 girl subjects randomly chosen from the Government schools of Chandigarh (Age range =14-18 years; Mean age=16.4 years).  The subjects were classified into Heavy, Moderate and Light media multitaskers using Media Multitasking Index questionnaire by Ophir et al (2009) and their working memory functioning was studied using OSPAN task. The results arrived at through ANOVA were found to be insightfully meaningful for use with media multitaskers.