Can taking a short break from digital devices help students focus and think more flexibly? University of Utah Asia Campus psychology students Seungmi Lee, Hyowon Jang and Yubin Kim explored this timely question through research presented at the 27th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction (HCII 2025) under the supervision of Dr. Jaewon Oh.

Their paper, “EEG-Assisted Analysis of Digital Detox Impact on Concentration and Cognitive Flexibility in University Students,” was published in the HCI International 2025 Posters proceedings as part of Springer’s Communications in Computer and Information Science series.

The study was designed to examine how a short-term digital detox might affect concentration and cognitive flexibility among university students. Its research design involved 50 students assigned to either structured, device-free activities or unrestricted smartphone use.

To evaluate the intervention, the researchers combined EEG measurements of brain activity with a cognitive assessment and participants’ self-reported levels of focus, clarity and relaxation. By bringing together neurological, behavioral and self-reported measures, the project sought to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how brief breaks from technology might influence student cognition and well-being.

This research could help inform practical, evidence-based strategies for students seeking healthier digital habits in demanding academic environments.

The project was supported by the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah Asia Campus and funded through an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Grant (UROG). UAC Psychology congratulates Lee, Jang and Kim on sharing their work with an international research community and publishing it in the HCII 2025 proceedings.