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Pros and Cons of Electronic Textbooks

Page history last edited by Megan Michaelis 12 years, 11 months ago

Overview

Electronic Textbooks, otherwise known as eBooks, are created and published in a digital format, which combine text, images, or both. Currently, eBooks are delivered via electronic hardware devices. These hardware devices include the following: desktop computers, laptops, Kindle, iPad, iPhone, and other eBook electronic devices. 

 

Advantages of Electronic Textbooks

The advantages of eBooks are varied. Below are a few notable advantages of the eBook:

 

  • Increased access - For example, for those with the aforementioned hardware devices, eBooks allow readers the opportunity to download the millions of books titles available. 
  • Reduced cost - In addition to increased accessibility, many of the eBooks are available for download free of charge. Even if readers are unable to download an eBook for free, they can save money on the price of the textbook because the cost to print the textbook is often reduced for the publisher. 

  • Increased free space - eBook readers will also save spaces on the shelf.  Readers can carry thousands of eBook in your digital device instead of 2 or 3 heavy textbooks. 

  • Real-time translation feature(s)- Many eBooks have the ability to translate words that readers do not understand. Additionally, it can also translate words into another language.

  • Improved Readability - Many eBooks devices can be read in very little light or bright light depending on each individual's preference. 

 

In addition to the benefits listed, there are more innovative and helpful features that users can benefit from. For example, text-to-speech software and the ability for readers to borrow and read instantly.  eBooks can also be used to increase literacy expectancy for people who have difficulty manipulating or accessing books due to disabilities.  eBooks can be loaded onto voice output communication devices that allow people with disabilities to have better access to reading materials..

 

Disadvantages of Electronic Textbooks

There are also some disadvantages of eBooks.  Some eBooks will take up a lot of memory, which cost money as well.  The eBook device will also need recharging after the battery is drained.  Due to the possibility of device defect, data loss can occur.   


Electronic Textbook Images

 

 

eBooks on Digital Bookshelf 

 

Turning the Digital eBook Page

 

iPad Digital Device created by Apple

 

    eBook Device - Kindle by Amazon


External Links

1.  E-book on Wikipedia

 

2.  Pros on eBooks

 

3.  E-book on Forbes

 

4.  E-book on Washington Post

 


References

 

Content Information

 

Doris Small.  (2000).  E-books in libraries: some early experiences and reactions.  Retrieved from http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-66217098.html

 

Gardiner, Eileen, and Musto, Ronald G. (2010).  The electronic book.  In Suarez, Michael Felix, and H. R. Woudhuysen. Retrieved from http://www.worldcat.org/title/oxford-companion-to-the-book/oclc/370356568

 

Grant, Steve.  (2002).  eBooks: friend or foe?  Retrieved from http://0-web.ebscohost.com.opac.library.csupomona.edu/ehost/detail?vid=7&hid=110&sid=532f770c-0539-470d-8cfa-aff340a3475d%40sessionmgr110&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=afh&AN=6573018

 

Harris, Christopher. (2009).  The truth about eBooks.  School library journal 55, no. 6 : 18. Retrieved from http://0-web.ebscohost.com.opac.library.csupomona.edu/ehost/detail?vid=3&hid=110&sid=1da2305c-da78-4169-ab9f-173f0cde892a%40sessionmgr111&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=afh&AN=41042184

 

Ideas for successful use. (n.d.). Using electronic books to increase positive literacy experiences for students with disabilities. Retrieved April 28, 2011, from www.spectronicsinoz.com/downloads/activity/dynavox/09-Ideas-for-Successful-Use-Jan-2010.pdf

 

Image Sources (Not obtained from content information):

 

Retrieved from http://www.best-ereaders.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Kindle-2-front4.jpg

 

Retrieved from http://scis.edublogs.org/files/2010/10/75.-Thinking-about-ebooks-image-33.jpg

 

Retrieved from http://www.downloadipad.co/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/cheap-ebooks-for-iPad-1024x768.jpg

 

Retrieved from http://workflowepub.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/what-ebook-page-orientation-do-you-prefer.jpg

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