Is screen reading a hindrance in comprehension?

Answer 1

Hi there,

There are studies showing that screen reading is actually worse for comprehension, but only for informational texts, not for narrative ones. The issue is that people often think they’re comprehending more than they are. There have also been concerns about screens and eye exhaustion.

However, when it comes to comprehension there are multiple factors, of which screen reading is just one. Sure, perhaps it would be optimal if you could always read physical texts. But other things have also been studied and shown to make a big difference. Taking handwritten notes, for example, has been shown to help people better internalize information in all circumstances. 

Understanding your personal learning style is also key. I’ve included below (hopefully it worked) a page I give people attending my professional trainings so they (and we) understand what will help them get the most out of the training. Take a look and see what your predominant style (or styles) is. You might be surprised! 

And of course, there’s the major question of what will actually facilitate you doing the reading in the first place! If you’re a student who has to carry heavy textbooks around you’re more likely to leave some at home on a busy day to avoid having to tote them around for hours, and miss the best chances to do the reading (both in terms of when you have time, and when you’re at your peak focus and energy for the day based on your personal circadian rhythm). If you have all your textbooks on a tablet, computer, or kindle, you won’t miss those chances. Getting it done at a time when you’re able to pay attention is very important!

Tl;dr: yes, screen reading has been shown to hinder learning outcomes when reading informative texts (but not narrative ones), but the most important thing is figuring out the circumstances that will actually let you get the reading done, and working out the other things that will optimize your personal experience and comprehension.

Let me know if you want any more info about how to work with your learning style, rather than against it.

Best,

Alexandra

Edit: It wouldn’t include the image, so here’s a link to the file. https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3A2ba6e6a6-e780-43c0-939e-eaa19f122713