No matter the educational setting, books are at the center of learning. I have been teaching for almost 8 years, and in these years I have had to use books for every aspect. Whether it be English Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Math, or anything in between, I have used books to help teach. In these years, I have also had the opportunity to teach using print books as well as electronic books (ebooks). I have also seen the benefits as well as downfalls of using print books or ebooks. This school year, my school started using a new social studies curriculum. With this, came some decisions like using ebooks or getting hard copies of them. When we took a vote as teachers, the winner was ebooks. This meant that everyone would be using ebooks. I was one of the teachers who voted for hard copies because I have seen my students struggle with staying focused on technology and they need to continue practicing their writing. Even after using the ebooks and seeing the benefits, I still wish we would have used print books. My school uses technology for so many other aspects that getting a break from screens is crutial in my opinion. Overall, this has presented many opportunities along with challenges in the learning happening during social studies. In this work, I will explore research to help me figure out if there really is a clear cut better option along with the benefits or pitfalls of each. 

Before being able to fully dive into the pros and cons of each method of texts, defining each one is important. The first is print book, sometimes also referred to as paperback or hardcover. This can be defined as "a written or printed work consisting of pages glued or sewn together along one side and bound in covers." (Cabag, 2021). The first books date back to 3500 BCE by the Mesopotamians (Cabag, 2021). This would be a paperback book or a hardcover book, with the difference being in the structure of the cover and back of the book, not the contents of it.

Now to define an ebook. As mentioned above, ebook is short for electronic book. Wahl (2018) uses the following definition for ebook: "A book composed in or converted to digital format for display on a computer screen or handheld device." Ebooks can be accessed via a variety of devices. These devices allow you to use the internet to download books, some needing internet to read and some being able to use without internet depending on the specific device. In schools, devices like chromebooks and iPads are commonly used for accessing ebooks since they are able to be used for other purposes, like school work and video meetings. The first ebook was created in 1971 of the U.S. Declaration of Independence (Government Book Talk, 2014 & Embong et al., 2012). 

Media 1 shows a basic comparison of what an ebook may look like and what a print book may look like. As technologies advance, there are more varieties of what these can look like, but for a basic comparison this image illustrates it clearly. 

Media 1: Guillen, John. (2014). Print vs. E-Book: Which side are you on? https://johnguillen.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/print-vs-e-book-which-side-are-you-on/

With the ever evolving world of technology, the switch from print books to ebooks has increased. In 2010, 69 million ebooks were bought. This is in comparison to 2020 when 191 million ebooks were sold (McLoughlin, 2023). It is important to note that although there has been an increase in ebook sales, print books still sold 750.9 million in 2020 (Milliot, 2021). This then presents the question: is a print book or ebook the better option? What are the benefits of each? In this work, we will explore those questions to help make an educated opinion on this topic.

Although print books and ebooks seem to be simple concepts, there are many aspects to both beyond the surface. Media 2 helps to highlight some common benefits that brought forward for both print books and ebooks.

Media 2: Team Leverage Edu. (2023). Wings. https://leverageedu.com/blog/ebooks-vs-printed-books/

When deciding which is the choice for you, it is important to examine the concepts behind each one. Starting with print books, Paper & Packaging (2024) found the following 7 scientific benefits of printed books:

1. You absorb more information.

2. They help children become better readers, too.

3. They're easier on the eyes.

4. They can help you sleep better.

5. You're less likely to get distracted.

6. Having a library at home is linked to higher academic achievement.

7. They amplify the joy of reading.

One concept related to print books is the Gutenberg Parenthesis. The Gutenberg Parenthesis suggests that the dominance of printed text during the era of Johannes Gutenberg's printing press (15th century onwards) created a distinct phase in human communication and culture, which is now being revisited or "enclosed" by the digital age (Pettitt, 2012). The theory connects the dominance of oral culture before the invention of writing and the resurgence of oral-like communication in the digital era. According to Pettitt (2012), the oral tradition was characterized by communal storytelling, fluidity, and the absence of fixed texts, whereas the Gutenberg era introduced a reliance on printed text, individual authorship, and standardized forms of communication. During the Gutenberg era, print books played a central role in presenting knowledge, shaping identities, and facilitating cultural exchange. They were symbols of authority, permanence, and intellectual prestige. However, with the advent of digital technology, Pettitt argues that we are witnessing a return to oral-like communication patterns, characterized by fluidity, interactivity, and the increase of multimedia content.

While print books continue to hold many different values to people, the Gutenberg Parenthesis theory prompts reflection on how digital technologies are reshaping our modes of communication, storytelling, and knowledge in the 21st century. It encourages exploration of the unique opportunities from both print and digital media.

Ebooks have a wider variety of concepts and theories behind them and I will dive into three of the ones that I believe are important when analyzing ebooks as a whole. The first is the Cognitive Load theory. This theory suggests that the human brain has limited cognitive resources for processing information (Plass et al., 2010). When reading digital texts, individuals may experience higher cognitive load due to factors such as screen glare, distractions from hyperlinks, and the need to navigate digital interfaces. Understanding how to minimize cognitive load while reading ebooks can optimize comprehension and learning outcomes.

The next theory around ebooks is the Dual Coding Theory. This theory is about how individuals process and store information through both verbal and visual channels (Paivio, 2014). Ebooks often incorporate multimedia elements such as images, videos, and interactive features, which can enhance comprehension by providing multiple modalities for encoding information. By leveraging dual coding principles, educators can design ebooks that facilitate deeper understanding and engagement. 

The final thing I am diving into regarding ebooks is digital literacy. Digital literacy refers to the ability to find, evaluate, use, and create digital information effectively, efficiently, and ethically. In the context of ebooks, digital literacy encompasses the skills and competencies necessary to navigate, comprehend, and critically engage with digital texts in electronic formats (Lankshear & Knobel, 2008)

When examining ebooks, it is also important to know that there are many components of the actual ebook.  "There are three basic components of e-Books: hardware or reader, software and the e-Book files." (Embong et al., 2012). Media 3 shows some options for hand held devices that could be used for ebooks. The devices shown are specifically made for ebooks, but ebooks are not limited to these devices. Ebooks realistically can be accessed through most devices that have internet access.

Media 3: Libraryman. (2024). Nassau Community College. Ebook Terminology. https://library.ncc.edu/c.php?g=308977&p=2061055

Media 4 is going to show a breakdown of different ebook readers and the apps that can be used with each one. This visual shows that unlike print books which really only have a few options like hardback and paperback, ebooks have a very wide variety of ways to access them.

Media 4: Bartram. (2015). Aptara's infographic of different eBook readers and apps options. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Aptaras-infographic-of-different-eBook-readers-and-apps-options-Bartram-2015_fig14_316564307

It is important to note that there is another type of way to consume books: audiobooks. Audiobooks are an audio recording of someone reading the book. This is extremely convenient for people on the go- commuting, traveling, or even relaxing. For the sake of this work though, I am going to only focus on print books and ebooks. 

Print books and ebooks both have many purposes, inside and outside of the classroom. There are so many variables that also come into play when deciding which option to pick. One thing to remember when deciding which you want to use is that you do not have to only pick one, you can use them interchangeably. You also do not have to make everyone use the same one, sometimes allowing a preference is the best option. 

Classroom

In the classroom, things like what age you are working with, the subject you are teaching, resources available, and the skills you are teaching can play as factors in choosing if you should be utilizing print books or ebooks. 

Ebooks can be used in a variety of ways in the classroom. The first is for accessing components of the curriculum. If you are using a specific curriculum that has ebooks, then this can be utilized. For example, TCI is a program that has the necessary readings as ebooks. They also have a variety of tools that can be used by students when reading like a notepad, highlighting, reading aloud, and differentiated reading leveled texts.

Another way that ebooks can be used in the classroom is for choice reading. Choice reading is the time when students are not reading with the purpose of learning a specific thing, but reading for enjoyment. My school has a library for students to get print books, but not every school has those resources. Students may also want books that are not available in the library. This is when ebooks can come in handy. There are many apps and websites, like Epic and Libby, that can be used to access ebooks for this purpose. Youtube is also a great source for younger grades or students who are struggling to read. There are many Youtube channels that will show the pages of the book on the screen and read along with it.  Ebooks often support multimedia elements such as embedded videos, audio clips, and interactive graphics. Teachers can use these features to provide supplementary materials that enhance understanding and address different learning styles.

One unique classroom application that ebooks have that print books do not is quick access. For example, if my students can only check out books when in the library and then they change their minds about what they want to read, they have to wait until the next time we are in the library to get a new book. With ebooks, students conveniently allow students to have all of the books they want on a single device. This can allow for personalized learning paths. Adaptive learning platforms can recommend ebooks and learning activities tailored to each student's needs, promoting self-directed learning and academic growth. 

Outside of the Classroom​

Ebooks and print books can be used in a variety of ways outside of the classroom, depending on each person. When not in the classroom, the freedom to pick using an ebook or print book becomes completely your choice. Print books and ebooks are available for so many different things, and I will highlight a few of those ways.

The first way is for choice reading, reading for enjoyment. Although some people only read for enjoyment when in an academic setting, there are also people who read for fun on their own. Similar to how it can be done within the classroom, it can also be done outside using the same apps and websites. If you are not in a classroom where you may be granted access to some sites, joining a public library can help you to gain access. For example, the app Libby is one where you can get access through your school or your library. Project Gutenberg has been turning books into ebooks for free since 1971 (Embong et al., 2012). Media 5 shows that people are not only utilizing the library for print books, but for ebooks as well.

Media 5: Zickuhr, K. & Rainie, L. (2014). Younger Americans’ Relationships with Public Libraries. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2014/09/10/younger-americans-relationships-with-public-libraries/

Another way you can use ebook or print books outside of the classroom is for hobbies. There are a variety of books, both print and electronic, that are available to help people learn and develop different hobbies. Both books can also provide information for furthering specific areas of interest. Under this category is professional development reading as well. If someone wants to further their knowledge about something for their career, the books are out there in many formats.

Both print books and ebooks offer versatile options for enriching educational experiences both inside and outside the classroom. The flexibility to choose between the two formats allows for a personalized approach tailored to individual preferences, needs, and resources. In the classroom, print books provide tangible and immersive experiences, while ebooks offer the convenience of accessibility and interactivity. When it comes to personal reading, whether for pleasure or for learning, individuals can take advantage of the wide range of resources available in both formats, such as digital libraries and traditional bookstores. By appreciating the strengths of each format and offering choices to students and readers alike, we can create a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment that caters to diverse interests and fosters a lifelong love of reading and learning.

There are many different critiques that follow each style of book. Many of the critiques are because the other type of book exists and people see the benefits of each. So for the purpose of this work, I will identify the problem as well as how the other type of book could be a possible solution for it. 

Critiques of Print Books

Regarding print books, there are many critiques that are up to the user to decide if it is worth it to them while still considering the benefits. The first critique is space. As print book collections grow, they can take up significant space in homes, offices, or classrooms. This can be a challenge for individuals with limited space or those who prefer minimalistic living. Print books can also be bulky and heavy, making them less convenient for readers who are on the go. If someone is an avid reader, they may need to carry multiple books, which would be even more difficult. Ebooks offer the opportunity to have one device, typically one that is smaller than a single book, that can hold many books.

Another critique is that print books can be pricey, especially if you prefer reading hardcover books. Ebooks are cheaper than print books. Media 6 clearly illustrates that hardcover and paperback books are more expensive than ebooks, specifically purchased for a Kindle in this study.

Media 6: Ronvmmm. (2020). Book Pricing: Format and the Value of Content. https://consumergateway.org/2020/11/22/book-pricing-format-and-the-value-of-content/

A third critique for print books is that once a print book is published, updates and revisions can only be made through new editions, which can take time and incur additional costs. This can lead to outdated information in older print books. With ebooks, they can be revised and updated with the click of a button. 

The final critique that I am going to mention is that obtaining a print book may require a trip to a bookstore or library, or waiting for a delivery when ordering online. This can delay access to desired materials. Some people also may not have access to transportatin to the places needed to buy or rent books. A solution to this is an ebook, where the book can be downloaded using an internet connection within minutes and from essentially anywhere with internet. 

Critiques of Ebooks

Regarding ebooks, a critique to consider is access to technology, both devices and internet. First off, this issue would not be happening if there was no access to technology, at school or at home. Prior to technology, print books were the only option. Since we live in the society that we live in though, we are forced to figure it out. The National Center for Education Statistics (2023) found the following:

“In 2021, some 97 percent of 3- to 18-year-olds had home internet access, according to the American Community Survey (ACS). Specifically, 93 percent had access through a computer,1 and 4 percent relied on a smartphone for home internet access.2 The remaining 3 percent had no internet access at home.”

Although this number seems high, there is still a percent of people who do not have internet access at home. This means that if there are assignments given for homework, those students would not be able to complete the work. Media 7 illustrates the amount of schools in the United States that are considered Title 1. A Title 1 school is one "with high numbers or percentages of children from low-income families." (Illinois Report Card, 2023). A Title 1 school, although they may have technology devices, may not be able to afford the most up to date devices to access ebooks in the easiest way. Without access to the internet, or the proper technology that is necessary for ebooks, then ebooks cannot be utilized to their full potential. Luckily though, there are still websites that only require access to technology in order to access the books. Although it is not necessarily the latest or greatest, it is access to ebooks nonetheless. On the other hand, print books do not require internet. There are grants for Title 1 schools to have libraries, so luckily there could still be access to print books regardless of the technology.

Media 7: MDR Marketing Team. (2024). How Many Schools Are in the U.S.? https://mdreducation.com/how-many-schools-are-in-the-u-s/#:~:text=Title%20I%20schools%20are%20those,schools%20benefiting%20from%20the%20program.

Another critique surrounding ebooks is that prolonged use of electronic devices can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and discomfort. Extended screen time may also contribute to potential sleep troubles and other health issues (Santos & Reeve, 2020). These health issues do not occur with print books.

A third critique is distrations. Depending on the device that is chosen to use, this could allow for students to be doing things other than reading. If the device can only access books, then this critique does not exist. With print books, the only distractions would be the surroundings. This critique is one that I struggle with the most. I really want my students to use ebooks since there are so many great aspects to using them, but they struggle with staying on task. They know that they could easily click off and be playing games, listening to music, or watching Youtube. It is easier to eliminate the distraction by removing ebooks and using print books in my opinion. 

The final critique that I'll point out is that you need to charge your ebook device. The device also only has so much battery before dying, making it so that you can no longer read the ebooks on the device. With print books, you don't need anything except for the book with you in order to be able to read it.

Both Print Books and Ebooks

There is one main critique for both of print books and ebooks. This critique revolves around wear and tear.  Both print books and ebooks need to avoid water since both can be permanently damage by it. Print books can be susceptible to damage from heat, animals, and general wear and tear over time. This can affect the longevity and usability of the text. Ebooks, after a certain amount of time, will also get damaged and need to be replaced. Just like with all technology, people may also feel the need to get the latest and greatest. Some devices also outdate and have no option but to be updated, sometimes requiring a new device. Although the ebook aspect is low price for purchasing, the device itself is an investment. ​

In conclusion, whether print books or ebooks are the preferred choice, books remain at the heart of learning in any educational setting. The decision to use print books or ebooks in teaching presents both opportunities and challenges. After looking at the research it is now time to decide: is there a clear-cut better option?

Ultimately, the decision between print books and ebooks should prioritize the diverse needs and circumstances of learners, educators, and communities. By embracing the strengths of both formats, and considering preferance of the reader, we can ensure that books continue to serve as invaluable tools for education, enrichment, and empowerment- whether it be a print book or an ebook!