Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Facebook for Better Memory

Facebook has been alive with complaints all day long.  It's really nothing new - facebook changes something, everybody complains for a while, and they all get used to the way things are.  Then, when everyone is comfortable, facebook changes things again.  Why, you ask?  Maybe they're trying to help all of us improve our memories.

I pulled an article out of USA Weekend from a couple weeks ago called 7 Easy Ways You Can Improve Your Memory NOW, thinking there could be some good tips in there.  If you've ever walked into a room and then forgotten what you were there for, then you know why...  Anyway, tip number 2 just may apply to facebook and why they are always changing things over there...
2) Switch things up.  If you're having trouble learning and retaining new information on your computer screen, whether it's the details of your new insurance plan or a new software system at work, try changing the font to a style that's harder to read.  Counter-intuitive, yes.  But a recent study by psychologists at Princeton and Indiana University reveals that adults who studied complicated information that was printed in unfamiliar fonts scored better on tests than those who read the text in a popular typeface.  The authors believe that the harder font forces your brain to concentrate more intently on the information.
OK, it's not exactly the same thing, but I think you see what I'm saying.  By regularly 'switching things up' facebook keeps us on our toes and helps us concentrate better.

For the other 6 tips on how you can improve your memory, check out the article at USA Weekend.  I wonder if I can apply any others to facebook?