An Entropy Index for Multitasking Behavior

This study conceptualizes multitasking in a tri-dimensional framework consisting of task, time and technology, and proposes an entropy measure called the Multitasking Entropy Index (MEI) to study multitasking behavior. Entropy indicates the level of disorder or heterogeneity in a system. In natural and social sciences, entropy measures have been used to study the dispersion of objects of interest. However, to date, these measures have not been applied to study human multitasking behavior. Multitasking is defined in terms of the focus shifts that occur when a person changes attention between ongoing tasks. MEI calculates the diversity of focus shifts that take place in a period of time. The index can also be applied to measure focus shifts across different technology devices. The results of an empirical test show the potential of the proposed index. The framework and index presented in this paper are poised to seed a new stream of research

Measurement of Multitasking with Focus Shift Analysis

Perhaps one of the most prevalent, yet least understood, forms of modern behavior is human multitasking aided by technology. Multitasking is both difficult to define and to measure. Based on Activity Theory and the concept of focus shifts, this study defines multitasking as shifts that occur when the flow of work is interrupted and tasks are interchanged during a session. The analysis of focus shift diversity, with respect to the tasks that receive attention, enables researchers to measure multitasking. With this approach, several indices of diversity are examined in order to provide recommendations about alternative measurement choices. This methodological study advances our understanding of the possibilities and limitations of using diversity indices for measuring multitasking