Reflective Academic Essay for Ebooks

            An ebook is a digital version of the tradition printed book. It could be research papers, short stories, or even a magazine. You’re able to access an ebook through a computer, laptop, or any other smartphone devices. It is very convenient. It also offers more features than a traditional book (Rosso, 2009). Ebooks popularity is increasing due to the numerous benefits that it offers.

           

A huge benefit to persuade readers to switch to eBooks is convenience. If you’re interested in purchasing a book, you’re able to buy a book within seconds. Ebooks are automatically sent to your device. Readers would no longer be required to drive to the bookstore or library. It also prevents the hassle of waiting for the package to arrive. Another convenience is portability. Since readers are allowed to view eBooks through their devices, they are able to access it anywhere. For students, portability would be a great factor for their switch to eBooks. It allows them to have more space in their bag (Sasson, n.d.). It is also great for students who are on a budget. Ebooks tend to be more affordable than the traditional textbooks (Nolen, 2013).

            Students gain a variety of benefits from eBooks. Ebooks may help with their academics. The eBook impact on academic achievement is a factor that should be considered. Studies discovered that eBooks could assist students with developmental delays. The features (dictionary, games, or audio narrator) of eBooks help improve their vocabulary skills and reading comprehension (Lowry, n.d.).

          

  Students have different learning abilities and styles. The eBook is a versatile tool that can assist with these learning needs (Nolen, 2013).  For example, visual learners would be able to experience videos and pictures while audio learners will have the ability to read the text through a sound clip. For students with different visual preferences, eBooks have tools that allow readers to change the font size and color. Students are able to highlight, strike out, or write down notes during their reading (Dietzel, 2002). Ebooks also have a search feature. Students have the ability to specifically search their topic (Nolen, 2013). Due to the visual benefits, students would find the eBook more rewarding and enjoyable (Deam, n.d.). It also encourages students to read independently (Kraft, 2015).

           

            Ebooks would be a beneficial tool for my social studies classroom. It has been numerous years since the district provided updated textbooks. Ebooks would be a suitable alternate for students to receive updated information. Additionally, it aligns with the school’s student learning outcomes is to incorporate technology. The use of the eBook would greatly fulfill this goal. Other than using eBooks to help the different learners, the eBook provides a variety of activities. EBooks would give the opportunity for students to practice their reading and speaking skills. Teachers may use apps to engage students in writing activities (Boobyer, n.d.). It would be a great form of assessment.

            These studies provide a list of the advantages of incorporating eBooks into the classroom. I aspire to use eBooks in my classroom; however, the reality is that our district has difficulty with providing the proper resources. We do not have enough laptops or tablets for every student. In my school, we do not have a computer lab and laptop carts are usually reserved. Dependable and stable Internet is also an issue. Although I gained the tools to introduce and incorporate eBooks with my students, I still need assistance with budget and resources. In the positive and bright future, I aim to use eBook with all its glorious features.

Resources

• Boobyer, V. (n.d.). How English teachers can use e-books in the classroom. Retrieved from https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/how-english-teachers-use-ebooks-in-classroom
• Deam, J. (n.d.). E-books vs. print: What parents need to know. Retrieved fromhttp://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/article/developing-reading-skills/e-books-vs-print-what-parents-need-to-know
• Dietzel, G. (2002, May). The benefits of eBooks: Learning with an attitude!. Teachers.net Gazette, 3 (5). Retrieved from http://www.teachers.net/gazette/MAY02/dietzel.html
• Kraft, A. (2015, December 14). Books vs. e-books: The science behind the best way to read. Retrieved fromhttp://www.cbsnews.com/news/kindle-nook-e-reader-books-the-best-way-to-read/
• Lowry, L. (n.d.). E-book or paper book - What's best for young children?. Retrieved from http://www.hanen.org/Helpful-Info/Articles/E-Book-or-Paper-Book-Whats-Best-for-Young-Child.aspx 
• Nolen, B. (2013, October 7). How Students Benefit from Learning with Ebooks. Retrieved September 04, 2016, from https://www.southuniversity.edu/whoweare/newsroom/blog/how-students-benefit-from-learning-with-ebooks
•  Rosso, S. (2009). What are eBooks? Advantages and disadvantages of electronic books. Retrieved from https://whenihavetime.com/2009/03/09/what-are-ebooks-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-electronic-books/
• Sasson, R. (n.d.). The Benefits and Advantages of eBooks. Retrieved October 06, 2016, from http://www.successconsciousness.com/ebooks_benefits.htm