With the technological advancements of Kindles, iPads, and other e-readers, many foreshadow that textbooks will eventually be offered mainly as digital copies. With the invention of such devices, students can simply download a digital copy of their required textbooks (often for a fraction of the cost) and view the content on the device. While the thought of carrying all of your textbooks in one lightweight, easily transportable device may be alluring, there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
The most obvious advantage is that you can replace heavy, bulky textbooks with a thin electronic device. Rather than breaking your back carrying 5 textbooks, you can store all of the books on the device. Also, you never risk the chance of forgetting one textbook if you have them all saved on the e-reader.
For a money conscious college student (and who isn’t?) an e-reader device can save you money over time. While the initial cost of the device may range from $139 for a Kindle to nearly $899 for the Kno dual-screened tablet, the digital versions of textbooks cost anywhere from 30-50% less than a new, print version. The investment will eventually pay for itself.
Perhaps the most appealing option of e-reader technology is the fact that students can do fairly quick word or phrase searches. Rather than leafing through a 500 page literature book for one specific paragraph, students can simply search and be directed to the requested page. Students also have the option to print out only the pages or chapters they want.
While there are several advantages to purchasing digital copies of your textbooks for use on an e-reader, it is important to note that there are several disadvantages that many students would rather not deal with.
For the student who follows along during lecture and diligently highlights or underlines important textual passages for emphasis during studying, an e-reader may not make the cut. Although some do allow for highlighting or underlining, many students prefer the traditional method.
For many students, the strain of staring at a computer screen while completing assignments is enough. They cannot bear the thought of reading hundreds of pages on a glaring screen. While technology has greatly reduced glare, some students find that reading a print copy of a textbook is less straining than the digital forms. For some students, nothing compares to the feel of a print version in your hands.
Although you have the luxury of having all of your textbooks in one lightweight device to carry to class, you may find yourself forgetting to charge it. If so, you may be stuck with a low battery in the middle of an intense classroom discussion.
Also, if you are a student that splits the cost and shares a textbook with a friend, an e-reader would prohibit this. Most students would not be comfortable loaning out their expensive device.
Since the technology is relatively new, many merchants cannot guarantee that 100% of all textbooks will be offered on their device. You may find that the Kindle offers your textbook, while the iPad doesn’t. It is important to realize that not all textbooks will be available. If the textbook is custom to your college or a professor wrote it, chances are you may have difficulty finding a digital version for your e-reader.
With technology ever-evolving, the market for textbooks is also changing. More and more, digital versions are becoming increasingly popular. While there are many advantages to purchasing digital copies of your textbooks, there can be disadvantages that may be deal breakers for some.
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