Video calls have become a staple of modern communication, especially in professional settings. However, recent research highlight drawbacks, particularly regarding creativity and idea generation. Here’s an exploration of why video calls can be annoying and disruptive to creative processes.
One of the primary reasons video calls hinder creativity is that they restrict participants' focus to the screen. A study conducted by researchers at Columbia University found that during video calls, individuals tend to fixate more on each other’s faces rather than their surroundings. This narrowed visual scope leads to a corresponding reduction in cognitive focus, which is detrimental to the associative processes that underpin creative thinking. When participants are confined to a small screen, they miss out on the broader context and stimuli present in a physical environment, which can inspire innovative ideas.
https://www.computerworld.com/article/1622632/qanda-why-video-calls-can-be-bad-for-creativity.html
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-04643-y
https://www.mpa.co.uk/news-insights/knowledge-hub/videoconferencing-hinders-creativity-study-finds/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/video-calls-bad-business-bring-back-telephone-mark-green-s5y8e
https://www.thenakedscientists.com/articles/interviews/video-calls-create-creativity-crash
https://www.verywellmind.com/research-links-virtual-tools-with-decreased-creativity-5272068
https://www.rfi.fr/en/videoconferencing-hinders-creativity-study-finds
1. The Cognitive Cost of Video Calls
Narrowed Focus
One of the primary reasons video calls hinder creativity is that they restrict participants' focus to the screen. A study conducted by researchers at Columbia University found that during video calls, individuals tend to fixate more on each other’s faces rather than their surroundings. This narrowed visual scope leads to a corresponding reduction in cognitive focus, which is detrimental to the associative processes that underpin creative thinking. When participants are confined to a small screen, they miss out on the broader context and stimuli present in a physical environment, which can inspire innovative ideas.
Reduced Idea Generation
The same study revealed that groups collaborating via video generated approximately 20% fewer creative ideas than those meeting in person. This decline in creativity is attributed to the limitations imposed by virtual interactions, where the opportunity for spontaneous brainstorming and exploration of diverse thoughts is significantly curtailed. In-person meetings allow for a more fluid exchange of ideas, where participants can easily bounce thoughts off one another and draw inspiration from their surroundings.2. Disengagement and Fatigue
Zoom Fatigue
Another factor contributing to the annoyance of video calls is "Zoom fatigue," a term that describes the exhaustion many feel after prolonged virtual meetings. The mental strain of maintaining eye contact through a screen and the constant need to interpret non-verbal cues without the benefit of physical presence can be overwhelming. This fatigue not only reduces engagement but also stifles creativity, making it harder for individuals to contribute meaningfully during discussions.Distraction and Multitasking
Video calls often lead to increased distractions. Participants may be tempted to multitask—checking emails or browsing the internet—while on a call. This divided attention further diminishes their ability to engage creatively with the discussion at hand. The lack of physical presence can create a sense of detachment, making it easier for individuals to disengage from the conversation.3. The Importance of In-Person Interaction
Enhanced Collaboration
In-person meetings foster an environment conducive to creativity. They allow for richer interactions where body language, spatial dynamics, and immediate feedback play crucial roles in brainstorming sessions. The spontaneous nature of face-to-face conversations often leads to unexpected insights and innovative solutions that are less likely to emerge in a structured virtual format.Recommendation for Hybrid Models
Given these challenges, many experts suggest prioritizing in-person meetings for tasks that require high levels of creativity and collaboration. While video calls are effective for certain types of communication—like quick check-ins or status updates—they may not be suitable for brainstorming sessions or complex problem-solving discussions. Implementing hybrid models that balance both in-person and virtual interactions could help mitigate these issues while still accommodating remote work preferences.4. Conclusion
While video calls have enabled continued collaboration during challenging times, they come with notable downsides that can disrupt creativity. By understanding these limitations, organizations can make informed decisions about when to utilize video conferencing versus in-person meetings. Ultimately, fostering an environment that encourages creative thinking may require a reevaluation of how we communicate in both virtual and physical spaces.5. References:
https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/work-life/study-finds-creative-brainstorming-suffers-during-video-calls/https://www.computerworld.com/article/1622632/qanda-why-video-calls-can-be-bad-for-creativity.html
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-04643-y
https://www.mpa.co.uk/news-insights/knowledge-hub/videoconferencing-hinders-creativity-study-finds/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/video-calls-bad-business-bring-back-telephone-mark-green-s5y8e
https://www.thenakedscientists.com/articles/interviews/video-calls-create-creativity-crash
https://www.verywellmind.com/research-links-virtual-tools-with-decreased-creativity-5272068
https://www.rfi.fr/en/videoconferencing-hinders-creativity-study-finds