I have recently commenced my second study session as a teacher-librarian student at CSU. In this session I will be studying the unit ETL503 Resourcing the Curriculum.
Having just completed the first week I thought I’d take the chance to reflect on the readings (Module1), which explored the rise of electronic literacy resources, such as eBooks, compared with the book traditional physical books.
Shatzkin (2013) writes that immersive books (those that are all text and involve reading from first page through to the last) have transitioned well into e formats. However, Shatzkin also noted that reference books, illustrated books and kids picture books are less appealing to consumers.
There will be those that are quick to see this as a weakeness in eBooks and throw their support wholeheartedly behind the traditional physical books we are all so familiar with. Likewise, the overall growth in eBook sales, as well as iPads and the like, will have others saying it is just a matter of time until physical books are a relic of the past.
However, I believe most of will see that the truth lies somewhere in the middle of these polar views. Both have strong futures and electronic resources are just a new format giving us added choice and variety.
As teachers it can only be a good thing to have a greater variety of tools and resources at our disposal. They are to be valued as we pursue the best learning outcomes for our students who learn in a great variety of different ways.
Shatzkin, M. (2013). The Shatzkin Files: What to watch for in 2013. Idea Logical blog.
Accessed on 9/3/2013, available at: http://www.idealog.com/blog/what-to-watch-for-in-2013/