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There's new information coming out about how our reading processes are changing. Technology seems to be re-wiring our brains. The way we look at computer screens affects how we receive information. Our eyes scan over pages quickly as we search for the information we're seeking. This process creates that re-wiring so our brains are just working on topical information and not actually reading for deep meaning and comprehension. The movement of our eyes isn't going from left to right as much. They are moving in a more non-linear fashion and attempting to grasp the page in its entirety in a quick swoop.
This approach slows down our visualization process, word usage process, and directly affects our comprehension and memory. Reading an actual book, and not an e-book, helps slow down the reading process and encourages enjoyment as well as remembering large and small events in the story. This is called "slow reading" and research is showing that this type of reading isn't tempting to scan or go on to other technologies as with e-readers. Having the experience of actually turning pages helps the reader remember where to locate parts in the book to go back to re-read. And books can help bring families together by reading out loud and enjoying well-written books. Reading to children strengthens the bond between parent and child. By Holly E. Newton |
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