The influence of technology on academic distraction: A review

The detrimental effects of academic distraction have become increasingly problematic in recent years due to student media multitasking. In recent years, educators have gradually transitioned many classes to the online learning environment, effectively reducing teacher supervision. This has been greatly exacerbated with the advent of coronavirus disease 2019 and subsequent social distancing guidelines. In an effort to help students and educators better understand the implications of technology on academic distraction and academic performance, this literature review discusses the effects of three forms on technology on student distraction: laptops, smartphones, and social media use, particularly the social media platform Facebook. While the effects of student laptops on academic distraction are somewhat ambivalent, the debate is largely moot in the current educational environment. The detrimental effects of student smartphone and social media use on academic distraction are more conspicuous, especially with the pervasiveness of personal digital devices. Potential self‐regulatory and environmental interventions are discussed.