An Analysis of Information Overload Components, Sources, Frequency, Effect on Performance and Coping Strategies utilized by Full-Time Undergraduate University Students

by Ellington, Virginia Beth

This study analyzes, compares, and contrasts the components of the definition of information overload, its primary sources, its frequency, its effect on work, and the utilization of coping strategies of ninety-eight full-time undergraduate university students by evaluating their responses to five open-ended questions.

The results of the study indicate that the students’ definitions of information overload contain primarily volume and time constraint components, the primary source is classes, it occurs often, has a negative effect on class work, results in loss of time and reduces efficiency for the students. The majority of the students utilize coping strategies of prioritizing work, organizing work and taking a break when they experience information overload.