The Power of Breaks: Enhancing Learning and Productivity

Francesca Gino, a Harvard Business School professor, discusses the importance of taking breaks both in educational and work settings. Her research shows that breaks significantly improve test scores and productivity. A study in Danish schools revealed that students who took breaks performed better, equating to substantial educational and economic benefits. Similarly, breaks at work boost productivity, highlighting the need to incorporate breaks into busy schedules for enhanced cognitive function and efficiency.

What is one of the main challenges mentioned by Francesca Gino regarding taking breaks?

• Lack of interest from students

• Lack of awareness about the benefits

• Busy schedules

• Insufficient research data

In the study conducted in Danish public schools, what was the duration of the break that led to improved test scores?

• 30 to 40 minutes

• 15 to 20 minutes

• 10 to 15 minutes

• 20 to 30 minutes

What socio-economic benefit is equivalent to the improvement in test scores due to breaks?

• Better school facilities

• Higher household income

• More vacation days

• Increased school funding

How do breaks affect cognitive resources according to the study?

• They replenish cognitive resources

• They have no effect on cognitive resources

• They deplete cognitive resources

• They confuse cognitive resources

What was the effect of breaks on worker productivity in the study?

• Productivity decreased

• Productivity remained the same

• Productivity increased

• Productivity was not measured