Some individuals believe that schools should stop using books because students find them boring, and that digital media such as films, television, video games and computers are better alternatives. Although these technologies can make lessons more engaging, I believe that books should remain an essential part of education because they provide detailed information and allow students to study more effectively.
On the one hand, digital media can make learning more interesting and easier to understand. Unlike textbooks, films and educational videos can combine images and sound to explain complicated ideas in a simple way. This can help students stay focused and remember information more easily. For example, in a history class, students can watch a documentary about a historical event and see how it actually happened instead of simply reading a description in a textbook. Similarly, educational games can allow learners to interact with the content, which may make lessons more enjoyable and memorable. Therefore, digital media can be an effective way of increasing students’ engagement.
On the other hand, books still have several important advantages, particularly when students need to study a subject in depth. Textbooks usually contain detailed and well-organised information, whereas films or games may only present the main points of a topic. In addition, students can easily reread a difficult section, underline important information and make notes while studying from a book. For instance, a biology textbook can explain a complex topic in much greater detail than a short educational video. As a result, books remain particularly useful for students who need to develop a thorough understanding of academic subjects.
In conclusion, digital media can make education more engaging and help students understand certain topics more easily. However, I do not believe that books should be replaced because they provide detailed information and give learners greater control over their study. In my view, schools should combine both methods rather than rely entirely on either one.