Should textbooks go digital?

With things like iPads becoming more common, while bookstores become more and more sparse, do you think that school textbooks should become digital?

It might not be anytime soon but I think it's probably inevitable.

When were in college those would not have been of much help, and we didn't get out that long ago.

They've actually already started doing that around here, with some of the high school's books being online. I think the concept is good in the sense that you don't have to lug around heavy textbooks, but on the downside, if you happen to be without power for whatever reason, weather-related, etc., and need access to the online books, you're pretty much screwed, since internet access is affected by power outages.

Also, some kids don't have computers because their families can't afford one, so they're forced to use the ones at the library, and arrange their time according to the library's hours.

A better solution would be to offer printed textbooks in addition to those online, for those who have limited internet access, and let the students choose which route they'd rather go.

I also think this constant, constant staring at computer screens is very hard on the eyes. I think it's done extra damage to mine as it is, and it's why I don't want a Kindle.

Bluesmama wrote:I also think this constant, constant staring at computer screens is very hard on the eyes. I think it's done extra damage to mine as it is, and it's why I don't want a Kindle.

This too, I can only look at a damn screen so many hours a day and we already had to do that in college because all the tests were online and we had to post on the class discussion boards and all of that.

It's bound to happen sooner or later, but I personally prefer books.

Marc™ wrote:It's bound to happen sooner or later, but I personally prefer books.