Does the Internet present a new kind of reading or is it the enemy to book publishing? The New York Times printed an interesting exposé on Sunday trying to uncover the real answer. Some literacy experts believe that surfing the web makes people lazy and misinformed, while others feel that kids are building new kinds of reading competencies. The article further presents arguments that this new phenomenon among teens will affect test scores and just general knowledge.
So what do I believe? As a new inductee into the First Book family, I have found that we want children to fall in love with books and reading to improve educational disparities. As many of you know, just getting children excited about reading is a daunting task, yet is essential to the success of future generations.
On the Internet, children become exposed to great creative freedom and are able to delve into web pages, such as blogs and web books, which can capture their attention. This interest may lead to greater overall reading comprehension. First Book gets kids hooked on books, but it is up to the child to carry on their reading enthusiasm. Reading, either books or internet pages, allows the mind to wander, explore and truly become immersed in something wonderful, which ultimately helps children excel in life.
The New York Times article exposes both sides of the issue, and I would encourage you to read the article to learn more: Literacy Debate: Online, R U Really Reading?
I would love your thoughts…do you believe that Internet reading has a positive or negative affect on children?
1 response so far ↓
1 murray // Jul 31, 2008 at 4:48 pm
The Internet is the greatest disseminator of hate and misinformation ever devised.
I’m also sure that a similar charge was leveled at Guttenburg. And then Marconi. And then DeForest.
The Internet is filled with “information” but we must never confuse “information” with “facts”.
The point is not whether the Internet is good or bad but whether it stimulates and encourages intellectual curiosity and fosters rigor, pushing kids to multiple sites and sources, to learn more and form solid judgments.
“Creative freedom” alone smacks of Kumbaya. There certainly is a place for fun and exploration in all our lives. But it is not a substitute for seeking truth.
You want to hook your kids on books? Unplug the computer; it’s too solitary a pursuit anyway. Put your kids on your lap and read to them. Even if they’re 23.
You must log in to post a comment.