Young people are now much more likely to prefer to read on a
computer screen rather than a printed book or magazine, according to a UK
survey. The National Literary Trust studied almost 35,000 eight- to
16-year-olds. Its findings suggest a picture of young people who are now
immersed in a screen-based culture. As well as social networking and browsing websites, the
study indicates almost a third of youngsters read fiction on online devices. Screen-agers, The study suggests high levels of access to mobile phones,
computers and tablet devices now mean that reading is an activity more likely
to be on screen than on the printed page. Of those surveyed, 52% preferred to read on screen compared
with 32% who preferred print, with the remainder having no opinion or
preferring not to read at all. "Not only are children and young people more likely to
read on electronic devices than they are to read paper-based materials but they
also do it more often," said the study. Researchers found that 39% of the young people read every
day on computers and screens, compared with 28% who read each day using printed
materials. Technology is central to the lives of these youngsters - 97%
reported having access to a computer and the internet at home, 77% said they
had their own computer. National Literacy Trust director Jonathan Douglas said:
"Our research confirms that technology is playing a central role in young
people's literacy development and reading choice. "While we welcome the positive impact which technology
has on bringing further reading opportunities to young people, it's crucial
that reading in print is not cast aside."
