American University professor Naomi Baron noted in her
book Words On Screen: The Fate of Reading in a Digital World, that 92% of
college students prefer print textbooks over e-books. That may be a good thing,
as a Seton Hall University researcher has discovered potential health issues
associated with reading e-books.
Diane Lynch, assistant director of health services at
Seton Hall, claims students could be susceptible to eyestrain, headaches,
blurred vision, and dry eyes related to computer vision syndrome. There is also
a risk for carpal tunnel syndrome for students using mobile devices and
tablets.
Lynch
told The Setonian that there is evidence the brain doesn’t process as well, store, and retain
information read in a digital format. There’s also the issue of distractions
attached to reading on a computer or tablet.