Exceptional Humans: Multitasking and Supertaskers

Understanding Multitasking

• Multitasking is the ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Most people overestimate their multitasking abilities and suffer performance declines when attempting to do two things at once.
• Multitasking can impair reaction times, similar to driving under the influence.

Supertaskers

• Supertaskers are the 2-3% of people who can multitask effectively without performance detriment.
• They have the ability to juggle tasks that most find impossible.

Research by David Strayer

• Spent decades studying human attention limits.
• Initial discovery of supertaskers seemed like a data error.
• Found that supertaskers' brains function like super athletes, not experiencing interference between tasks.

Brain Differences

• Supertaskers show less activity in prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortices, indicating efficiency.

The Supertasker Test

• Developed an online test/gaming experience to find more supertaskers.
• The test involves multitasking with visual and verbal elements, such as managing nightclub entry and passwords.
• Highly challenging with confusing instructions.

Findings

• Over 6,000 participants; about 150 passed by summer 2019.
• No significant gender or geographical differences among supertaskers.

Nature vs. Nurture in Supertasking

• Likely a genetic trait, but some believe training could improve multitasking.
• Paul Dux studies neural basis and suggests practice can improve multitasking.
• Brain stimulation might enhance learning and multitasking abilities.

Implications for Health

• Multitasking is linked to executive brain functions, essential for healthy aging.
• Ability affects risks like falls in older adults.

Technology and Multitasking

• Technology could adapt to human cognitive limits to prevent overload.
• Ami Eidels explores how tech can manage information load for pilots.

Conclusion

• While supertaskers have remarkable abilities, they are still limited and can be overloaded.
• Future tech might balance information load to maintain human control without overwhelming.

Series Note

• Part of the "Exceptional Humans" series exploring human potential limits in various aspects.