From: hubermanlab
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Recent discussions and research have raised concerns about the influence of technology, particularly devices like smartphones and tablets, on cognitive functions. In a session focused on the power of play and learning, Andrew Huberman, a Professor of Neurobiology and Ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine, highlights significant findings related to this topic.
Comprehension and Device Usage
A particularly noteworthy study, as discussed by Huberman, sheds light on how reading on smartphones compared to paper affects our comprehension and brain activity. This study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, analyzed the reading habits of 34 healthy individuals, finding that comprehension was notably poorer on smartphones compared to printed materials. This suggests a potential drawback of digital reading with respect to understanding and retaining information effectively [00:03:03].
Physiological Sigh Suppression
Another surprising finding from the study was the suppression of physiological sighs when using smartphones. Physiological sighs, which occur approximately every five minutes, are crucial for proper gas exchange in the body (oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide release). While these sighs occur naturally, reading on devices like smartphones seems to inhibit this breathing pattern, leading to reduced oxygen levels and increased carbon dioxide retention in the brain [00:05:16].
Brain Activation and Strain
The suppression of physiological sighs can lead to an overactive prefrontal cortex—a part of the brain involved in focus and attention—as it attempts to compensate for the reduced physiological efficiency in learning environments. This hyperactivity is not conducive to efficient learning, suggesting that device usage might be cognitively straining beyond the immediate task of reading [00:06:02].
Broader Implications for Learning and ADHD
Huberman notes that these findings align with broader concerns about attention deficits in modern society. The restrictive visual aperture of small screens adds another layer of difficulty in processing information, potentially contributing to focus-related challenges such as ADHD. The concept of “email apnea”—where individuals unconsciously hold their breath while interacting with digital communications—compounds this stress, further straining cognitive functions [00:08:41].
Recommendations
To counter these effects, Huberman advises incorporating deliberate physiological sighs when engaging with digital devices to maintain optimal brain function. Further, for critical learning tasks, the preference should be toward using larger screens or printed materials, which support better cognitive processing [00:07:32].
Enhancing Focus and Learning
Engaging more with printed materials rather than digital screens, and incorporating deliberate breathing techniques, can improve comprehension and reduce cognitive load during learning activities.
Given the pervasiveness of digital technology in everyday life, this research underscores the importance of being mindful about how we interact with devices to maintain cognitive health and performance.