The use of Zoom and other types of video conferencing technology has skyrocketed at all levels of our nation’s educational system during the global pandemic. Unfortunately, all of those video classes can lead to “Zoom fatigue.”
Studies show that an increasing share of college students have discovered that video courses can be both challenging and draining. Here are a few reasons why you might find Zoom so tiring.
- Too much screen time is exhausting. Sitting down and staring at a computer screen for long stretches of time is tough. You feel compelled to keep your attention on the faces and what’s going on. But nonstop screen time is hard on both your body and eyes. With in-person courses, you get to walk to and from classrooms and your eyes get a rest from screens. Not so with back-to-back Zoom classes. Here’s what can help: Take regular breaks using the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Whenever possible, also take time to stretch and take short walks.
- You’re multitasking. It’s easy to minimize a Zoom class or meeting and try to get other things done. The problem with this approach is that you are only giving half of your your attention to each task. You’re not getting as much done as you think — especially quality learning that requires concentration. It’s simple: Research shows that human beings are not equipped to effectively multitask, even though most of us continue to try. Studies show that you’ll get more done — and do a much better job — if you focus on one task at a time. The next time you’re in a Zoom class, close any tabs or programs that might distract you, put your phone away, and stay tuned in.
- You’re looking at yourself. In face to face communication, you don’t see your own face while you’re talking, of course. Not so with Zoom. The problem: Several studies show that many people don’t like seeing themselves for long periods on the screen and many people get distracted by their own face in Zoom classes and meetings. Here’s something to try: At the start of your next Zoom class or meeting, double check that your appearance is in order and then hide yourself from view. Others in the meeting can still see you, but you’ll no longer see your face on the screen.