Going a step forward from debate on eBooks and traditional books, the new topic is eBooks and Audio books. Which one is more convenient, better future indicator of books ? We can argue endlessly on this because different people have different views and depends on their life style, their preferences, their choices, etc. Stream-Recorder Forum discusses this topic and the members have put forward their views as to which medium of knowledge and leisure they prefer and why.
Those in favor of audio books argue that they can listen to their favorite book anywhere, anytime. Its simply a way for busy people to enjoy their favorite hobby while on the go. They also say there is no benefit in staring at paper or screen if they can just listen to it and gain the same knowledge while doing something else side by side. Quoting one of the members appropriately, "I just don't understand how sitting, not moving and looking at words can overpower working, listening and hearing animated syllables." It is also a great option for kids, who don't know how to read completely or just don't have patience to sit and read. Teachers can also easily access kids' books online and download them for free and keep them handy. Audio books are also great for travelling. It easier to carry an iPod or a CD/DVD with lots of books on it and listen to while driving.
But there are some favorable arguments from eBook lovers too. Audio books present emotions of the reader(vocals) but when you read something yourself, you present your own feelings towards the characters and the story line. You can keep notes, highlight favorite quotes and come back to read them anytime. You can explore the story further by reading and re-reading the phrases. You can sit back, relax and enjoy your favorite fable. And studies also show that actually reading something keeps it in your mind for longer time than listening to it. Because your whole concentration is on those words you are reading as compared to listening, when you might be doing something else on the side and might not grasp everything you are listening to.
But on the end we can say that it all depends on intelligence of different people, how they find it easier to learn something or enjoy something, i.e. listening to or reading books. People have different memories, some remember more when they listen to something and some when they read. Everyone has a different approach. It also depends on what are you going to read/listen to, the author and your purpose of going through that piece of literature.
So which of your sense is more bent towards words ?? Eyes or Ears ?
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Audio/Video streaming records forums provided me an excellent source of going through different people's opinions on audio and eBooks. Members' opinions are based on personal experiences and unbiased.
Hello Monica
ReplyDeleteI loved that your research incorporated our senses into the top of books. Senses make or break an experience of reading literature whether that would be on an ebook or an audio book. We grew up with audio books in school, it was great there was no effort in actually reading the book, you just had to listen. In most cases if we were asked specific questions about the book none could recall it .. hence I do agree with you as one does not retain by hearing a book versus reading one. I also found an article of the Benefits of Audio books , essentially the cost factor involved in audio books limit the use of them in classroom these days, further it impacts certain students with disabilities. The article goes into great lengths about this tool to enhance student’s vocabulary, the way to read certain literature, however this type of media is met with objections as parents and teachers are not too fond about these books as it requires less effort by the student to remain concentrated. However, it is a great invention for those who have a disability.
Johnson Denise, published in Reading Rockets, retrieved from; http://www.readingrockets.org/article/64/
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ReplyDeleteJohnson Denise, published in Reading Rockets, retrieved from; http://www.readingrockets.org/article/64/