Streamlining Book Reading amidst Hectic Daily Routines
In the "Student Life" section, Alexandra Koskosidis, Engineering Correspondent, explores the world of reading for busy students, focusing on the benefits and drawbacks of reading eBooks on a phone.
The author, who found herself drawn to some of BookBub's daily email recommendations, discovered a website that sends customized recommendations of free and cheap eBook deals. Her reading dwindled during high school, but with the convenience of reading on her phone, her passion for books came back.
For busy students, the benefits of reading eBooks on a phone are numerous. Accessibility, flexibility, and convenience allow students to read anytime and anywhere, fitting study around their other commitments. eBooks can be customized easily, supporting searchable text and note-taking, which aid in efficient study. Moreover, eBooks are often more affordable or even free, easing financial burden, and may include multimedia content and links that enhance understanding.
The portability of a phone makes it ideal for on-the-go learning and quick access to resources. Students can utilize short pockets of time—commutes, breaks, waiting periods—to study without carrying physical books.
However, it is important to note some drawbacks. Research indicates that reading on screens can reduce reading comprehension compared to print, partly due to distractions, multitasking, and less effective memory cues. Extended screen time may also contribute to eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns.
To optimize the benefits of digital reading, using focused reading strategies and minimizing distractions can help.
The author, who enjoys reading every day in her spare moments like blow-drying her hair, waiting for food, or waiting for a class or event to start, is a testament to the convenience of reading on a phone. She even argued with her parents about bringing books on vacation as a child, demonstrating her lifelong love for reading.
Princeton has an eBook library called OverDrive, and many libraries have implemented eBook borrowing programs. The author even delved into the senior thesis archives to find a topic discussing "How to use a Reference Room". One of the topics discussed in the Junior Paper (JP) is also "How to use a Reference Room".
In summary, for busy students, eBooks on a phone provide unmatched convenience and accessibility, enabling study anytime, anywhere. However, it is crucial to be aware of potential downsides like lower comprehension and eye fatigue. Using focused reading strategies and minimizing distractions can help optimize the benefits of digital reading.
