Importance of Reading in the Digital Age – Why Books Still Matter in a Tech-Savvy World

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@Mariya-Rajpar Beautifully put!
Books feed the mind in ways screens can’t — they slow us down, spark imagination, and build depth. Let’s keep that joy alive in our classrooms!

@Mariya-Rajpar I strongly agree to this idea of printed book reading. Reading books can nurture new ideas in teachers not just kids. I think teachers need to take responsibility first. if teachers practice doing it students will follow them. Kids imitate teachers nowadays. Besides the diversity of opinion and ideas that books can give to readers. While reading printed books is healthy and relaxing experience, reading books on mobile or PC can lead to various health concerns.

@Ridafatima95
You're absolutely right reading cultivates essential qualities that go beyond surface-level understanding

@Bushra-Tahir
Absolutely !
Books offer depth, focus, and critical thinking that digital content often lacks. While technology gives quick access to information, reading builds patience, imagination, and deep understanding—skills vital for lifelong learning.

@Zymal492cb0cdb1
Absolutely! Encouraging reading in the digital age means meeting students where they are while nurturing a love for books. Offering diverse and engaging texts, creating cozy reading spaces, and integrating reading across subjects make it more relevant and enjoyable. When teachers model reading and use tools like e-books and apps, it shows students that reading is both valuable and accessible. Activities like book clubs and reading groups not only build community but also make reading a shared, exciting experience. Celebrating reading milestones adds motivation and keeps the momentum going.

@Zymal492cb0cdb1
Exactly !
Reading builds critical thinking, empathy, and language skills that technology alone can’t offer. To promote it, schools should provide diverse, engaging texts, create welcoming reading spaces, and integrate reading across subjects. Teachers and parents must model good reading habits, while e-books and apps can make reading more accessible for digital-age learners.

Such an important topic! In a world where attention spans are shrinking due to constant screen time, reading remains a powerful tool for nurturing imagination, critical thinking, and emotional depth. Books invite students to slow down, reflect, and immerse themselves in different worlds, something scrolling can’t offer.

In my own teaching experience, I noticed that reading helps students express themselves better, think more clearly, and even speak with more confidence. It’s not just about decoding text, it’s about building identity and empathy.

Last year, I introduced reading aloud as part of a national oral reading competition. At first, many students were hesitant and shy. But as we practiced, their love for books, and their confidence, blossomed. The group grew, and so did their curiosity and joy in discovering stories beyond the screen.

To take this further, I’m planning to create a book club in partnership with an association called SAFAHAT. The goal is to give students access to a variety of books, allow them to meet writers, and develop creative projects around books—like making cartoons, short films, or other artistic interpretations. I believe this kind of engagement can reignite a passion for reading in a fun and collaborative way.

To encourage reading in this digital age, we need to reconnect students with the emotional and creative joy of books. Teachers can organize read-aloud sessions, storytelling clubs, or even mix print and digital with audiobooks and interactive e-books. Most importantly, we must model the habit ourselves. When students see us excited about reading, they start to see it differently too.

@Mariya-Rajpar impressive topic

the question here is how to encourage them to read books?

@Ahlam-HAMRI First step is to develop their interest in reading. So suggesting books that allign with the interests of students. Children's have different choices. Asking kids to read a book in the area of their interest and than share the same book or learning in the classroom by reading the same book. This way they will have incentive to read and share their learning with fellows. Teacher can frequently read part of book or different books in class as part of this drill. Once they develop reading habit than they can diversify as they explore new learning domains. So introducing kids to books is first stage in whatever field they consider suitable and easy. Eventually, kids will become extensive readers. Habits can not be developed overnight. It requires interest and continuity over a long period of time.

Reading builds deeper thinking, focus, and imagination—skills that quick digital content often can’t fully develop.

@GULZAR-ALI thank you

@Mariya the digital age, reading books continues to be important for cognitive development, fostering empathy, expanding vocabulary, and promoting critical thinking skills, even with the rise of online content and technology. Books offer a unique immersive experience, allowing readers to engage in active imagination and interpretation, skills that are increasingly valuable in a world of passive screen consumption.
Cognitive Benefits:

@Zymal492cb0cdb1 Reading engages the brain in a variety of ways, enhancing memory, focus, and concentration.

@Zymal492cb0cdb1 Books encourage analytical thinking and the evaluation of information, skills that are crucial in navigating complex information landscapes.

@Bushra-Tahir Reading exposes readers to new words and phrases, improving language skills and communication abilities.
Personal and Social Benefits:

@Ridafatima95 Exposure to diverse perspectives and narratives through fiction and non-fiction enhances empathy and understanding of different cultures and viewpoints.

@HIRAC405752f6f0 Stress Reduction:
Reading can be a relaxing and enjoyable activity, offering a break from the stresses of daily life and providing a sense of escape.

@KHALI8a025bdbaa While digital media offers its own advantages, reading books provides a unique and valuable experience that can complement rather than replace digital forms of entertainment and learning.

@Sanaa -books and online reading platforms offer convenience and accessibility, allowing readers to access a vast library of texts and explore different genres and topics.