Rapid Reading Decline

 

EMILY TRAN Staff Writer

 

This generation has experienced a decline in reading, substituting books with technological advances, such as smartphones and computers. According to a recent survey from American Psychological Association, a third of teenagers in the U.S. have not read a book during their own time in at least a year.

“It requires too much time and focus,” sophomore Anis Feng said. “Many children are interested in more upbeat activities like YouTube and sports. For books, there’s not much interaction or talking to anybody.”

A large selection of books could overwhelm people as there are simpler ways to obtain information. Books could provide situations that may deepen a person’s understanding of the real world.

“It’s important because not only do we learn more about human nature it reveals our inner thoughts; there’s nothing more beautiful than celebrating the lives of people and the stories they have to share with the world.” English teacher Jasmin Izumikawa said.

According to a study conducted by the Institute of Education at the University of London, reading in leisure time will benefit a student more in subjects such as vocabulary, spelling and math than those who do not read in their spare time. Students who read are also more likely to be able to think critically and understand complex issues.