Write for an Academic Discussion

A professor has posted a question about a topic and students have responded with their thoughts and ideas. Make a contribution to the discussion.
You will have 10 minutes to write.

Your professor is teaching a class on technology and society.

In your response, you should do the following.

• • Express and support your opinion.
• • Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor’s question:

Today, let's discuss how technology has changed our reading habits. Digital books, or e-books, offer incredible convenience, allowing us to carry a whole library on one device. On the other hand, many readers argue that physical books provide a more focused, tactile experience that aids comprehension and reduces digital distractions. Which format do you believe is more effective for academic learning, and why?

Student response 1:

I think e-books are superior for academic purposes because they are more practical. Students can easily search for specific keywords and highlight text without damaging a book. Moreover, digital textbooks are often cheaper and more environmentally friendly since they don't require paper, which is a significant advantage.

Student response 2:

I prefer physical books, even though e-books have their benefits. I find that reading on a screen leads to more distractions, like notifications and the temptation to browse the internet. Additionally, holding a real book helps me concentrate better and remember information more effectively without the eye strain from a screen.