(Not in Online Resources
Divided Attention
Following are suggestions to assist individuals with weaknesses in divided attention (i.e., multi-tasking):
- Avoid situations that require division of attention among multiple inputs (e.g., listening on a phone while monitoring a computer screen) or outputs (e.g., speaking while typing).
- Structure activities to be engaged in one at a time to completion, with minimal requirements for switching or abrupt changes. This may involve making lists of activities/tasks to be completed one at a time, and using checklists to document when each task has been completed before moving on to the next task.
- Allow adequate time for responding/self-pacing.
- Assist in developing organizational strategies (e.g., lists, written instructions, etc.) which minimize the need to divide attention.
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