When a student appears to be inattentive, it’s easy to say, “Listen up” or “Pay attention.” However, it may not be that easy for the student to do so.

Studies report that people’s attention spans are shrinking. Others say they are simply evolving and becoming more selective. Researchers theorize that these may be the effects of the mobile revolution and an increasingly digitized lifestyle. But, is this really true? Since technology is here to stay, how can we help students improve their focus and attention so they are ready, willing and able to learn?

Why paying attention is important?

Attention is the ability to focus on information and being productive while ignoring everything that is not worth paying attention to, also called distractions. In a typical classroom, students are expected to pay attention to the teacher for extended periods. According to learning techniques most employed in schools, 45% of a student’s day is spent listening, and students are expected to acquire 85% of their knowledge through listening. Effective listening, therefore, is critical to academic success.