With the advancement of technology, e-books are suggested to replace traditional paper textbooks. Some people, without considering the possible drawbacks it may bring, rave about the idea of adopting e-books at once and boast of its benefits. However, is this really the whole picture? Are there any disadvantages of using e-books that should draw our concern? These questions will be discussed below.
Undoubtedly, e-books are convenient. A whole lot of textbooks can be stored in one single portable electronic device. It sounds attractive but if we change our perspective, we will as well be aware that all our books will be lost when the electronic reader malfunctions. It is risky to put all the eggs in one basket, especially in a classroom, in which students are energetic and they may damage the fragile device carelessly while playing in the crowded and small room. In addition, valuable items are always the targets for robbers. If our e-books are stolen, not only will we lose all our learning materials, but also an expensive device. We should think carefully whether it is really safe to use e-books to replace our textbooks entirely.
Second, staring at the screen of the e-book for hours every day damages our eyesight. Teens and students are at the stage of physical growth and their eyesight should be protected. We will suffer from eye strain and short-sightedness focusing on the light-emitting screen for a long time. We cannot deny that e-books do bring us convenience. However, should we risk out health, especially our precious eyesight, in return for convenience?
Third, e-books will distract students from learning. The multi-function electronic device can store a lot of games and other applications which are much more attractive to the students compared with those lengthy and difficult learning materials. While listening to the teachers in the classroom and doing lesson preparation or revision at home, students are always tempted to switch to those other functions and forget about learning. E-books hinder our acquisition of knowledge instead of being the source of it.
To conclude, there are disadvantages in replacing traditional textbooks with e-books. We should think twice before considering using e-books to replace the paper ones entirely. Personally, I prefer paper textbooks as they are more concrete and real to me. I do not like reading virtual e-books. Studying with the paper books, I can always write notes on the pages. It is easier for me to do revision. I don’t think replacing traditional paper textbooks with e-books entirely is a good call.