The effect of cognitive style and curiosity on information task multitasking

Abstract

In this research, we test the hypothesis that cognitive style, (specifically Verbalizers and Visualizers) and Curiosity influence the multitasking habits of information users. The study surveyed 319 internet users about their multitasking habits with respect to a set of six information tasks and seven technology tasks, as well as the two individual differences scales. Results indicate that generally those who exhibit a more Visual style of processing or those who exhibit simultaneously a high level of both Visual and Verbal styles of processing as well as scoring high on the Curiosity scale tend to multitask the most. A similar pattern emerged with respect to the two information search tasks. However, those who score high on the Verbal style of processing were as likely to do more multitasking when doing search tasks.