Research Symposium Program - Individual Details

5th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 17, 2025

Ashley McMillan

BIO

I am an 11th-grade student from Panama City Beach with a strong academic interest in mechanical engineering. I plan to pursue a career in this field, focusing on innovative problem-solving and practical design. My research topic, Analyzing the Extent to Which Short-Form Media Affects Attention and Working Memory, examines the potential cognitive effect of short form digital content on students. In addition to my academic pursuits, I serve as one of the captains of the Lady Marlins basketball team and as the secretary of student government at my school. Through balancing leadership roles in athletics, student government, and academic research, I have developed discipline, teamwork, and time management skills that contribute to my overall growth as a student.

Analyzing the Extent of Which Short-Form Media Affects Attention And Working Memory

Authors: Ashley McMillan, Doedy Deal
Student Major: AP Research
Mentor: Doedy Deal
Mentor's Department: AP Research
Mentor's College: J.R. Arnold High School
Co-Presenters: none

Abstract

More recently a problem with cognitive development in teens has been on the rise along with the use of social media. Even with people being aware of the effects of social media on teens they are still consuming it at a harmful level. This problem has negatively impacted high school students because it impairs their attention span and working-memory which is needed to thrive in the classroom. A possible cause of this problem is on what form of social media they use.

Keywords: Short-form media, attention, focus, working memory