"Literacy Debate: R U Really Reading?"

In Motoko Rich’s New York Times article, “Literacy Debate: R U Really Reading?”, he discusses the effects of the increase in reading on the internet. He speaks about a girl Nadia, who spends at least six hours a day on the computer. She uses it to e-mail, go on social networking sites, browse videos on “youtube”, and read fictional stories based on books, TV, or movies. Nadia’s mother prefers she would read books. This story is not uncommon in many households across America. Many teenagers are addicted to the internet. They prefer reading fictional stories on the internet over real novels. Much debate exists over what it really means to read in the “digital age.” Statistics show that grades on standardized reading tests have declined more recently. Some people put blame on the increased use of the computer and lack of reading books. Others argue that this is a new kind of reading and that it prevents teenagers from being glued to the television all day and night. Those who believe in and support the web are not denying the value of books; rather they believe that kids need a range of different types of reading experiences. They believe that the web can help reading; it keeps readers more engaged in the material. They are able to read what other people wrote about the work, or they can discuss with others online. They believe that reading on the web can give kids a new kind of skill that can help them get jobs in the “digital age.” Some countries have even begun testing kids on digital literacy, just like standardized tests on reading. The other view on internet reading is that it distracts the reader. They say that most of a teenager’s time on the internet is not spent reading. Statistics show that from 1984-2004 the level of literacy decreased tremendously. In addition, most kids who read tend to score higher on reading tests. In today’s day and age, people are beginning to see how web reading can be beneficial. Zachary, a student mentioned in the article, says that the web allows you to hear different opinions and there is more interaction, as opposed to books which or “more on-way.” He says, “online just gives you what you need, nothing more or less.” That is exactly what the world wants today. They want their information as quickly and clearly as possible. More people are starting to realize the benefits of web reading, but this does not mean they are disregarding books!