Full Citation
Delgado, P., Vargas, C., Ackerman, R., & Salmerón, L. (2018). Don’t throw away your printed books: A meta-analysis on the effects of reading media on reading comprehension. Educational Research Review, 25, 23-38.
Publication Type
Meta-analysis (systematic review of 54 studies)
What They Studied
Researchers analysed 54 studies comparing reading comprehension between paper and digital media to determine if the reading medium affects how well people understand what they read.
Key Findings
Paper reading leads to significantly better comprehension than screen reading, particularly for:
- Longer texts (more than one page)
- Texts requiring deeper understanding
- Expository/informational texts (as opposed to narrative stories)
- Time-limited reading situations
The advantage of paper was consistent across studies, though the effect was more pronounced when:
- Readers had less time to complete the reading
- The text was more complex
- Comprehension was tested with inference questions (not just factual recall)
Why This Matters for Schools
This is one of the most comprehensive reviews of reading medium research. It demonstrates that the shift to screen-based reading in schools is not evidence-based – in fact, the evidence points in the opposite direction.
When schools require children to read textbooks, revision materials, and literature on screens, they are likely reducing comprehension and learning compared to paper-based reading.
What Parents Should Know
If your child’s school has moved to digital textbooks or requires reading on screens for homework, this research suggests they’re making learning harder, not easier.
Questions to ask your school:
- Are you aware of the research showing paper-based reading leads to better comprehension?
- Why have digital materials been chosen over printed textbooks when evidence suggests this reduces learning?
- Can my child access paper versions of reading materials?
