Print Reading vs. Digital Reading: To Read Or Not To Read

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Print reading vs. Digital reading:

There’s so much scope for distraction when we’re reading on a device with unlimited possibilities to surf. Can we conclusively tell if reading on paper or a device is better?

While digital media is convenient and cheaper to procure, its often seen as a platform that can’t enable serious and thoughtful academic work. Whether it is long form reading or bite sized essays, digital books are easy for highlighting, bookmarking, or saving parts of interest for easy retrieval through search functions.

Although, print is easier on the eyes, Gen Z (those born after 1995) might claim that modern screens are becoming better at visual display of book like letters and typography. But for those of us who’re irrelevant (read “of the dinosaur era”) still might be perceiving reading from a book as real reading compared to the unnatural online screen reading where you can’t feel or hold onto the story – literally.

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Agree or not, it’s easier to hold oneself accountable to the stack of papers or books on the night stand rather than something lying “hidden” within a device. Heavy reading can be done, and we can truly reflect instead of defect into a new browsing tab or window.

What’s more, studies say 67 percent of us are likely to multitask while reading digitally, compared with 41 percent when reading print. We’re prone to skimming or getting distracted, because the temptation of the possibilities on a device are undeniable.

Whatever the medium of choice be, the point is to read. Because we can’t meet every single hero of ours in person. So, we read about them, their biographies and how their led inspiring lives. The point is to remember this learning objective.

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Get Lit is a Future STRONG initiative to gather tweens and teens to talk, listen, discuss and imagine a world of possibilities through the words they read.

Understanding the written word is a powerful tool in expanding our analytical thinking skills. Reading, especially without pictures, helps us synthesize the words we consume. It develops our imagination and engages our curiosity.

Reading is how we discover that we all have our unique abilities, stories and journeys. More importantly, in our digital age of texting and snapping, reading any kind of prose – academic or literature, is a dying art. If you’re tween, teen or a parent, join us in the discussion.

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About The Article Author:

Our mission with FutureSTRONG Academy – to grow children who respect themselves, their time and their capabilities in a world where distractions are just a click or a swipe away.

I see myself as an advocate for bringing social, emotional and character development to families, schools and communities. I never want to let this idea out of my sight – Our children are not just GPAs. I’m a Writer and a Certified Master Coach in NLP and CBT. Until 2017, I was also a Big Data Scientist. In December of 2044, I hope to win the Nobel. Namasté.

Write to me or call me. Tell me what support from me looks like.

Rachana Nadella-Somayajula,
Program Director & Essential Life Skills Coach for Kids and Busy Parents