This research study considers the status of middle school students in the 21st century in terms of their tendency to multitask in their daily lives and the overall influence this multitasking has on teaching and learning environments. Student engagement in the learning environment and students' various learning styles are discussed as primary influencers on student learning. The need for differentiated instruction, which could pertain to allowing students to multitask freely, is also examined. Data which were collected supports the notion that allowing students to multitask in learning environments does not harm learning, but rather holds promise to increase learning among students. Finally, thoughts on the value of teachers allowing students to multitask freely while at school are offered for consideration. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]