By Azzah Alghamdi

technological advancements witnessed worldwide have had numerous positive impacts on education, with the most notable being the rise of distance learning and the integration of technology into teaching. The Internet has made it significantly easier for both researchers and students to access educational resources crucial for their studies. However, one concerning trend that many countries are embracing is the widespread adoption of electronic books as an alternative to traditional printed books.

This matter deserves discussion with UNESCO officials to better understand the risks and drawbacks associated with electronic books. It’s important to remember that newer isn’t always better, and some traditional methods and tools, such as paper and pen, remain irreplaceable. When we examine the most significant drawbacks of e-books, the first issue that arises is their impact on eye health. It’s widely recognized by medical professionals that extended screen time, as found in e-book reading, can strain the eyes and potentially lead to vision problems.

Given that students often engage in lengthy study sessions, especially before exams, this poses a significant health risk. The use of e-books for kindergarten and primary school children is even more concerning due to their developmental stage. These young learners are more prone to accidents, making e-books vulnerable to damage. Replacing a damaged e-book device quickly can be challenging for families.

This same challenge applies to older students. Moreover, e-books require regular charging, which can be inconvenient and distracting when the battery runs out during study sessions. Carrying traditional books is more convenient as they don’t require charging, Internet access, or fear of breakage. Students can move freely without being tethered to chargers or specific locations. Another issue is the difficulty of sharing e-books.

If a parent or private tutor wants to assist a student with their studies, they may need another e-book or a traditional book. This process can be cumbersome and disrupt the learning process. Despite the advantages of e-books, many of these conveniences are also available with traditional books. True learners prioritize serious and effective studying, emphasizing comprehension and memorization for exam preparation.

Some argue that e-books could alleviate the issue of heavy school bags, but this can be easily resolved by dividing schoolbooks into chapters or parts, making them more manageable for students to carry. Perhaps the only universally applicable advantage of e-books is when teachers use them instead of students. In this scenario, the teacher can project the e-book onto a display screen, allowing students to follow along during lessons.