Human beings have always had an ability to attend to several things at once.  Nor is electronic multitasking entirely new: We've been driving while listening to car radios since they became popular in the 1930s. But there is no doubt that multitasking has reached a kind of warp speed in the era of Web-enabled computers, when it has become routine to conduct several IM (即时通讯) conversations, watch TV and use the computer all at once.
But what's the impact of this. media consumption? And how are these multitasking devices changing how kids learn, reason and communicate with one another? Social scientists and educators are just beginning to deal with these questions, but the researchers already have some strong opinions.
Although multitasking kids may be better prepared in some ways for today's fast-paced workplace, many scientists are positively alarmed by the trend. Kids that are instant messaging while doing homework, playing games online and watching TV, aren't going to do well in the long run.
On the positive side, multitasking students tend to be extraordinarily good at finding and using information. And probably because modem childhood centers around visual (视觉的) rather than print media, they are especially skilled at analyzing visual data and images.
Many educators and psychologists say parents need to actively ensure that their teenagers break free of uncontrollable engagement with screens and spend time in the physical company of human beings--a growing challenge not just because technology offers’ such a handy option but because so many kids lead highly scheduled lives that leave little time for old-fashioned socializing and family meals. Indeed, many teenagers and college students say overcommitted (任务过重的) schedules drive much of their multitasking.
Just as important is for parents and educators to teach kids that it's valuable, even essential, to occasionally slow down, unplug and take time to enjoy life beyond the screen.