INFORMATION GLUT

What problems stem from data overload, and how can teens tackle it?

For unwary victims of an information glut, Nardo shows that, whether it’s informative, connective, or exploitative; pictorial, textual, or aural, data floods us and competes for our limited attention and memory storage. Our judgment suffers as we become fatigued by exposure to excess content. This information avalanche defeats even data collectors, who fail to analyze and use it productively. Dealing with cognitive overload, the author says, requires both proactive and reactive filters; without them, memory distortions multiply. There is much (but not too much!) useful information here, including suggestions to turn off app notifications on your phone, not multitask, and exercise more, which has a beneficial impact on the brain. Key chapters differentiate misinformation from disinformation and detail the effects (especially on teens) of data overload. Analyzing causal factors for difficulties in identifying reliable information, Nardo cites the proliferation of unreliable sources, weak critical thinking and fact-checking skills, feedback loops, and confirmation bias but doesn’t discuss distrust of authority or disparagement of mainstream outlets. Another oversight is the relative lack of attention to the impact on self-image and emotional regulation of pressures resulting from social media exposure. Readers may wish for more suggestions for dealing with many of the problems cited. However, this is a solid introduction to a significant issue.

This basic presentation of key issues offers some ideas for mitigating a widespread problem.