Ebooks (electronic books) are basically digital versions of traditional printed books that can be read on electronic devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, e-readers and other portable devices. Ebooks typically come in file formats such as PDF, EPUB, MOBI, HTML, et cetera. Let us know ‘Are E-Books Good For College Students?’.
E-Books good for college students
Ebooks can be purchased online through various retailers and are often downloaded directly to the user’s device. Physical books are tangible objects that contain written or printed material on paper pages, bound together and enclosed within a cover. They have been used as primary means of transmitting and preserving knowledge, imagination and entertainment for centuries.
As much as technology has revolutionized the way we access and share information, some traditional practices still hold value in certain contexts. Ebooks may be all the rage lately, but when it comes to college students, they might not be the most effective or beneficial learning tool. Despite the convenience and accessibility that they offer, here are few reasons why I believe ebooks are not as good for college students as conventional printed materials.
Distractions and health issues
E-books can be a source of distractions as the devices used to read them can easily access social media, games and other applications that can hinder concentration. They are often accompanied by distracting notifications, advertisements, emails, pop-ups and instant messages. Reading from electronic devices can cause eye-strain, fatigue, headache, and other health problems such as sleep disturbances due to the blue light emitted by screens. The eye-strain makes reading from a screen a lot more taxing than reading from a physical book. In fact, studies have shown that the glare and flicker from screens tags the brain more than paper, especially if the text is longer.
Limited access
Not all books are available in e-book format, which means one may not be able to access all the required course materials. E-books are protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology that can limit the number of devices on which one can read the book or even delete the book from his/her device. Some e-book formats may not be compatible with all devices or software, limiting their accessibility. Since e-books are digital files, ownership rights may be more complicated than with physical books, and they may be subject to copyright protection and restricted sharing. This can be frustrating for readers who want to keep their purchased e-books forever. If one’s device’s battery dies or they breakdown, he/she may lose access to all his/her readings, notes and other important materials. Reading physical books does not require any technology or electricity, making it more convenient for those who do not have access to digital devices. Some publishers restrict access to their ebooks or prohibit copying or printing.
Lack of physical interaction
Ebooks lack the tactile experience of holding a book and turning pages, which some readers find pleasurable. Studies have shown that reading from a screen reduces the ability to retain information compared to reading from a printed material. This means that readers are more likely to forget details from an e-book than from a physical book. According to neuroscience, we humans use
different parts of our brain when we read a physical book compared to reading on a screen. We process information more effectively when we use multiple parts of the brain and multiple senses. The feel of the pages in our hands is not just nostalgia, it is also a rich source of information telling the reader of their position in the text. Reading experts say that the sense of position is very important and print readers are more likely to accurately recall the stories or events in a chronological order because of it.
Limited sharing options
E-books cannot be shared with others as physical books can be. Physical books can be easily lent or borrowed, allowing us to share the enjoyment of reading a good book with others. E-books can be read on devices such as tablets, smartphones, and e-readers but the screen size of these devices is comparatively smaller than physical books. It can make reading a bit uncomfortable and can also lead to reduced readability.
Limited personalization
One cannot personalize his/her digital book with bookmarks, notes or annotations. Although some e-book readers allow highlighting and note-taking, it’s still not as fulfilling as creating our own personalized copy. In case of e-books, there is a lack of serendipity. The experience when browsing through the shelves and discovering new books in a library or bookstore is lost when it comes to e-books. They are often sorted by search terms, making it difficult to come across something unexpected. Physical books add aesthetic value to your bookshelf or coffee table, and can serve as a conversation starter when guests come over. Collector’s editions and rare copies of physical books are unique and can hold significant value over time. Physical books are generally more durable than electronics and they can last for decades when cared for properly, whereas e-reader typically has a limited lifespan. Buying physical books from local bookstores supports small businesses and helps to keep them alive in a world dominated by online retailers.
While e-books may offer some benefits for college students, they cannot replace the value of traditional printed books. E-books lack the tactile and sensory experience of physical books, which has been shown to enhance learning and memory retention. Additionally, e-books are not always reliable and can be susceptible to technical issues, which can be particularly frustrating during intense academic periods. Thus, college students should prefer physical resources over digital resources in order to achieve their academic goals.
