Concentration in the Humanities

FAIN: HD-51258-11

Weber State University (Ogden, UT 84408-0001)
Luke O. Fernandez (Project Director: October 2010 to August 2013)

A pilot project to identify and consider methods, including the modification of test software, to minimize student distraction by digital environments. The project would be conducted in conjunction with an interdisciplinary humanities course on concentration.

Concentration in the Humanities is a three-part project that helps Humanities students deal with digital distractions. The Concentration in the Humanities Project will serve as a pilot. Weber State's Composition Program (which one of the grant participants directs) will integrate the pilot's best practices into its curriculum. Concentration in the Humanities will also catalyze campus conversations about the problem of distraction in the digital age and the importance of learning how to focus when attempting to read or write.

Media Coverage

Longing For Home (Media Coverage)
Author(s): Amy Stewart (the name of the journalist who wrote the article)
Publication: Standard Examiner
Date: 9/20/2011
Abstract: A short blurb on the grant is mentioned at the tail end of the article. The article reviews a book recently published by one of the people (Susan Matt) who is a participant on the grant. It can also be viewed here: http://tinyurl.com/3zgezou

Weber State class asks 'Are Machines Making Us Stupid?' (Media Coverage)
Author(s): Nancy Van Valkenburg
Publication: Standard Examiner
Date: 1/23/2012
Abstract: A local journalist reports on a class that is funded by the grant.
URL: http://www.standard.net/stories/2012/01/22/weber-state-class-asks-are-machines-making-us-stupid

OUR VIEW: A Thing About Machines (Media Coverage)
Author(s): Editorial Board of Standard Examiner
Publication: Standard Examiner
Date: 1/30/2012
Abstract: OUR VIEW: A Thing About Machines
URL: http://www.standard.net/stories/2012/01/30/our-view-thing-about-machines

Is technology making us stupid? Author suggests 'Internet sabbath' to students (Media Coverage)
Author(s): Benjamin Wood
Publication: Deseret News
Date: 2/12/2012
Abstract: An article describing the NEH funded class and project in the context of a broader story about a campus visit by William Powers, author of Hamlet's Blackberry.
URL: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705340019/Utah-Jazz-Longevity.html?s_cid=s10

Interview on KCPW Radio (Media Coverage)
Date: 2/21/2012
Abstract: Segment 2: Living the Tech Life Today’s conventional wisdom may be that a well-rounded life must include Facebook, iPhones and constant connectivity. But does technology and omnipresent media really enrich our relationships, boost our moods and enhance our intellectual capacity? Professors Susan Matt and Luke Fernandez join us to explore the question: Are machines making us stupid? Guests: Dr. Susan Matt, Professor and Chair of the History Department, Weber State University Dr. Luke Fernandez, Manager of Program and Technology Development, Weber State University
URL: http://kcpw.org/blog/cityviews/2012-02-21/cityviews-22112-lessons-from-the-cold-war/