Audio Transcript:
(SOUND EFFECT: train sound) Brain Off the Track
I'm Bob Karson with the discovery files -- new advances in science and engineering from the National Science Foundation.
Focus, you're trying to get something done in the midst of distractions (SOUND EFFECT: sound) co-workers' voices, (SOUND EFFECT: sound) somebody's phone, (SOUND EFFECT: phone ringing) flashing lights, that noise your stomach make (SOUND EFFECT: sound). How good are you, how good is your brain at staying on-task?
Based on new research out of the University of Oregon -- that depends -- on just how much 'ram' or random access memory you have. Well, not literally. But the researchers do compare people's working memory capacity to a computer's ram.
The study used electroencephalograms, or 'EEGs' -- images of the brains of student volunteers, who were assigned simple tasks on a computer. Various distractions were added in to throw them off.
By generating a 50-millisecond flash of light, the researchers could determine exactly where participants' attention was focused. Some of the students were easily distracted and slipped doing the assigned task. Others were able to 'tune out' the irrelevant stuff, and focus on reaching the goal. The researchers believe these people have more working memory capacity -- which, just like more ram -- gives them better processing ability -- it helps in things like achievement tests, math, or language-learning.
If you're among the 'easily-distracted', take heart. The researchers are looking to see if there's a positive side to that kind of brain function -- things like maybe enhanced creativity, or imagination -- where was I? Oh, yeah.
"The Discovery Files" covers projects funded by the government's National Science Foundation. Federally sponsored research -- brought to you, by you! Learn more at nsf.gov or on our podcast.
