Study on How Different Types of Breaks Affect Memory and Attention in Medical Students

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare how different types of breaks affect memory and attention in medical students after a long period of studying. The study evaluates an active break involving walking or upper body movement, a digital break involving phone use, and no break at all. Tests measuring memory, executive function, and attention will be used to understand the effects of these breaks on cognitive performance. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups an active physical break group, a digital break group, or a control group with no break. After a period of studying, the active group will take a 10-minute light physical activity break, the digital group will take a 10-minute social media break, and the control group will continue studying without a break. Each group will complete cognitive tests before and after the break period, including the List Learning Task, Stroop Test, and Sustained Attention to Response Task. During the study day, participants will fill out demographic forms and complete cognitive tests before studying. After 45 minutes of study, they will take the first part of a memory test, then take their assigned break or continue studying. After the break, they will complete the second part of the memory test, followed by attention and executive function tests. Surveys will collect information on social media use and participants thoughts about their break experience. The primary outcome is sustained attention measured during the study day.

Examining Executive Functions in Medical Students Across Different Types of Study Breaks