This link opens in a new windowDoes it really matter if you read from a screen (your phone, a Kindle, a computer screen) or if you read from a paper book or magazine?
Yes and no. It depends on the reader, the context, and the purpose.
1. Reading Speed and Comprehension
Two characteristics of reading speed and comprehension are clear after much research on these topics. The first is that the faster a person can read, the more positive effect it has on comprehension. The second is that we read text on a screen at a slower rate than text on a printed page.
To increase your reading speed on a screen, focus on sections of a text at a time without scrolling the page. Also, keep in mind the reading comprehension refers to the act of decoding the words and images on the page or screen. It doesn't necessarily relate to your ability to recall the information later. To improve that, take advantage of note taking apps and screenreaders or take traditional notes in a notebook.
2. Distractions
Distractions are not a new phenomenon for readers. Paper texts often have their own distractions, and environments can provide other distractions. Being an engaged digital reader means managing those distractions. When reading a webpage, close as many advertisements as possible to reduce the visual distractions on the page. You can also use "Reading Mode" in Safari and Chrome to read web pages without ads, navigations, or other distractions. (Click the links below to learn how to enable reading mode)
Etextbooks typically won't have distractions like ads, but they do have several other distractions such as navigation menus, hyperlinks in the text, and embedded videos. Keep track of where you are in the textbook before clicking a hyperlink so that you can return to the page easily. Also consider only clicking the hyperlinks once you have finished a section. Saving the hyperlinks until the end of a section can help digital readers stay more engaged in the reading content.
Click here for reading mode for Safari directions. Click here for reading mode for Chrome directions
3. Intention
A key characteristic of being a successful reader is personal intention. Readers who set aside time to read and take notes while reading have higher comprehension and retention rates than readers who do not. When reading an etextbook, use the highlight and note taking features or use your own notebook for notes.
After reading, make notes about the key ideas in the passages and how they apply to the course content. Review all your notes and note any questions you may have.