The Lasting Appeal of Printed Books in Education

 

Printed books continue to hold their ground as a favorite among students and teachers, despite the rising popularity of digital alternatives. While eBooks may offer an easy option, recent studies highlight that most readers still favor the tangible experience printed books’ tangible experience.

According to a 2023 NACS survey, 65% of college students prefer printed textbooks over digital formats, citing improved focus and comprehension as key reasons. Educators agree, with 74% reporting that students engage better with physical books.

These findings show that printed books are still popular. Data, not just stories, supports their value.

9 Reasons Printed Books Win the Battle

 

1. Better Learning and Comprehension

Numerous studies show that readers absorb and retain information more effectively when reading printed books compared to digital ones. For example, a 2021 study published in Educational Research Review found that print readers performed significantly better on comprehension tests than their digital counterparts. This is particularly important in academic settings, where deep understanding is critical.

2. Healthier for Your Eyes

Printed books eliminate the strain associated with blue light emitted by screens. Prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain, characterized by fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision. According to the American Optometric Association, nearly 60% of Americans experience these symptoms from excessive screen use. Printed books offer a healthier, stress-free alternative.

3. Fewer Distractions

Screens come with constant notifications and the temptation to multitask, leading to decreased focus. A Journal of Experimental Psychology study found that even the presence of a smartphone can reduce attention and memory retention. Print books, by contrast, offer an undistracted, immersive reading experience.

4. The Tangible Experience

A 2022 survey conducted by Pew Research Center revealed that 73% of college students preferred printed books over eBooks. Respondents cited the tactile pleasure of turning pages, the unique scent of books, and the ability to write notes in the margins—qualities that digital formats simply can’t replicate.

5. Trackable Progress

Printed books provide a clear sense of accomplishment as readers visually track their progress. Flipping through pages offers a physical marker of how far they’ve come, which many readers find motivating. Digital books lack this tactile feedback.

6. Enhanced Notetaking

Annotation is easier and more intuitive with print. Writing notes in the margins or highlighting text in a printed book provides a seamless and effective way to engage with the material. Digital annotation tools, while available, often feel clunky and less satisfying.

7. Resale Value

Printed textbooks retain resale value, allowing students to recoup some of their costs. A used book marketplace can make a significant dent in the overall expense of higher education. Digital books, on the other hand, often come with licensing restrictions that prevent resale.

8. Show Off Your Achievements

For lifelong learners, a bookshelf filled with titles represents a visual symbol of knowledge and accomplishment. A digital library doesn’t carry the same weight—literally or metaphorically.

9. Always Ready, No Batteries Required

Printed books don’t rely on batteries, chargers, or Wi-Fi. Whether you’re on a plane, at a remote campsite, or simply experiencing a power outage, your printed book is ready when you are.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

The enduring appeal of printed books isn’t just anecdotal; it’s supported by data:

• A study published in Computers & Education revealed that 92% of college students prefer reading hard copies of textbooks for serious study.
• According to a Statista survey, 42% of U.S. adults read exclusively printed books, compared to just 7% who read only digital books.

Ready to Rediscover the Joy of Print?

If you’re convinced it’s time to make the switch back to printed books, you’re not alone. Whether for academic purposes, leisure reading, or simply as a way to reduce screen time, print books offer unmatched benefits.

We’re here to assist! Let’s make learning more enjoyable, effective, and distraction-free with the timeless power of print.