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Tired? Distracted? Burned Out? by The Ezra Klein Show
New York Times, January 5, 2024

Is the modern world leading us into a collective "attentional injury"? In this thought-provoking conversation between Ezra Klein of The New York Times and Dr. Gloria Mark, a Chancellor's professor in the Department of Informatics at University of California, Irvine, the parallel between physical and mental exhaustion takes center stage. Mark's research suggests that just like physical resources, our cognitive resources also need rest and recovery. Prolonged mental effort, exacerbated by constant digital interruptions such as emails and notifications, leads to burnout. Mark's research reveals that people check email an average of 77 times daily, contributing to stress and reduced focus. She explains how frequent task-switching leaves behind a cognitive "residue," making it harder to concentrate on new tasks. This insight is particularly relevant for educators dealing with the increasing influence of technology in learning environments. As technology usage becomes increasingly common, understanding how digital distractions affect students' attention and well-being is crucial. Additionally, managing both students' and educators' mental resources is also essential. This conversation invites educators to reconsider their approach to attention and workload in today's tech-heavy world, offering actionable insights into how to prevent burnout and support cognitive health.