Deep attention is defined as a cognitive style characterised by concertinaing on a single object for long periods of time; whereas hyper attention is characterised by switching focus rapidly among different tasks.
Traditionally, deep attention is seen as a ‘superior’ form of learning and gathering information, but in a modern society this notion is being challenged. With the almost intrusive use of social media, the emergence of mulit-tasking is becoming more prominent in our lives, specifically our classrooms. We see students flicking back and form between programs, readings and essays and this has raised a few concerns regarding the quality of work that is produced- but are these concerns valid? Does the switch in focus warrant this concern?
Many students, myself included, find themselves drawn to external media when trying to study- that small surge in dopamine received from checking a ‘boop’ of a Facebook message can sometimes become too hard to resist. While yes, this does distract me momentarily from the essay, reflective journal or blog post I’m completing, it does allow me that small break I need to re-energise and re-focus on the task at hand. Although, that being said, it can start to become an issue when I have no choice but to remain on task, such as during an exam.
I believe there are merits to both deep and hyper attention and that neither are the ‘correct’ way of learning; only that there are instances where one seems more appropriate than the other.