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.

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:

We've been talking about the shift from printed media to digital formats. This is especially true for textbooks, as many universities now favor digital versions. They are often cheaper and more interactive. However, some research suggests that students retain information better from physical books and find them less distracting. Which format do you believe is more effective for student learning, and why?

Student response 1:

Digital textbooks are clearly the better option for modern students. They are more environmentally friendly and much more affordable. Additionally, the ability to search for keywords and access supplementary online materials with a single click makes studying far more efficient than flipping through hundreds of pages.

Student response 2:

I strongly prefer physical books for serious learning. I find I can concentrate better and remember more when I'm not reading on a screen filled with potential notifications and other distractions. Because I can highlight and write notes in the margins, the material feels more engaging.