PRINT VS DIGITAL: WHICH IS BETTER FOR LEARNING AND READING?

We are living in an increasingly digital world.

Technology has truly changed our lives, by changing the way we communicate, work, and learn.

Most of these changes are certainly improvements, but recent analyses highlight the advantages of good old print over digital in the learning environment and the preference of younger people for printed books over e-books.

Young people prefer printed books

Love Paper, Two Sides' global campaign to promote the sustainable characteristics of paper printing and packaging, has published on its website an interesting article titled Why Generation Z Prefers Print Books reporting data collected in various countries.?

The data collected by Pew Research in the United States and published in 2022 shows that Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2015) prefers reading printed books rather than using an e-reader.?

Similarly, a study carried out by Nielsen BookData between 2021 and 2022 in the U.K. found that printed books are the most popular reading medium among readers aged 13-24, a range that accounts for 80% of purchases. [1]

Paper-based materials are better for learning

The report The Importance of Paper-Based Materials in Education, published by Two Sides, focuses on the widespread use of digital media in education and its consequences on the learning process.

The report collects data from studies carried out in various countries between 2014 and 2018. It highlights how the growing dependence on digital processes and resources can negatively affect a student's ability to learn and remember information, while paper-based learning materials, in addition to providing cognitive benefits, can also provide a much-needed break from the digital world. [2]

The benefits of printed paper in publishing and learning

While the transition from paper to digital learning materials may now seem inevitable, we should remember that the latter are still in their infancy, with much research still to be done regarding the impact that digital technology may have on us and our lives. On the other hand, the paper has a long history as our studying and reading companion!

Optimal reading and study experiences require not only quality materials but also foresight and respect for our environment.?

To meet the needs of publishers and readers alike, Burgo Papers’ range of graphic papers for book printing is developed by combining the faithful and long-lasting reproduction of texts and images with the use of raw materials and processes that incorporate sustainability in every stage of life of the book, from printing to recycling.

A selection of Burgo Papers for textbooks printing

• Burgo Papers' medium-weight coated (MWC) range offers an optimal combination of thickness and lightness. The brilliant colour rendering delivers sharp text and vibrant shades, while strength and durability help maintain the print quality over time. Find out more at https://www.burgo.com/en/burgo-papers/grade/medium-weight-coated-mwc-107??
• With a "natural" look, Burgo Papers' range of uncoated woodfree (UWF) fine papers is ideal to convey authenticity and wholesomeness in editorial projects. Produced following strict sustainability standards, the uncoated segment of Burgo Papers' production includes PEFC, Ecolabel, and FSC? certified papers. Find out more at https://www.burgo.com/en/burgo-papers/category/fine-papers-80/finishing/uncoated-95?
• Speaking of sustainability: EDUCA is the bulky lightweight coated (LWC) paper specifically developed by Burgo Papers for school and educational publishing, available with PEFC and FSC? certification. EDUCA delivers opacity and bulk for all substances and excellent runnability, to create high-quality educational materials. Find out more at https://www.burgo.com/en/burgo-papers/products/educa??

Sources

[1] Why Generation Z Prefers Print Books?

Read the full article on the Love Paper website

https://lovepaper.org/why-generation-z-prefers-print-books/

[2] The Importance of Paper-Based Materials in Education?

Read the full article on the Two Sides UK website. https://www.twosides.info/UK/the-importance-of-paper-based-materials-in-education/