In our modern technological age, visual learning through computers, smartphones, television, and tablets has become increasingly popular. YouTube, in particular, has emerged as a go-to source for learning new information and skills. Reading books, on the other hand, seems to be on the decline. But in this brief article, I aim to make the case that reading still triumphs over visual learning.
Depth of Understanding: Reading cultivates deeper comprehension compared to visual learning. When reading and engaging with text, we actively interpret and analyze information, leading to a profound understanding of the subject matter. We pause for reflection whereas watching videos drives the pace of watching. Moreover, writing allows authors to explain ideas in more depth. Though convenient and engaging, videos have limits in their ability to convey in-depth information and provide simplified overviews rather than comprehensive explanations.
Language Enhancement: Written language tends to be more descriptive and expansive than spoken language. Authors can carefully choose their words for precision and clarity, benefiting readers to enhance their vocabulary, grammar, and language fluency. By encountering a wide range of words and sentence structures in written form, we significantly improve our language compared to those who primarily watch video content. Therefore, readers often surpass viewers in their ability to communicate ideas effectively, both in speaking and writing.
Intellectual Growth: Watching videos can lead to passive consumption of information with little mental effort. Viewers often respond on an emotional level rather than rationally analyzing what they see. Reading, on the other hand, actively engages the brain’s cognitive functions like attention, thinking, and imagination. Just as physical exercise trains our bodies, reading edifies our minds. It transforms our brains from passive viewing into active thinking.
Retention and Recall: It is often said that people remember what they see more than what they read. This may be true for visual images, but research reveals reading leads to better retention of information.[1] The act of reading requires mental attention, imagination, and effort, allowing readers to internalize and remember what they’ve read for longer periods. It cements lessons in our minds. In contrast, viewing videos often results in superficial learning due to the passive nature of the activity.
Critical Thinking and Analysis: Viewers of videos are often mere spectators, with little opportunity for reflection or critical thinking. While videos serve a purpose, only reading provides the rigorous mental workout needed to strengthen skills like discernment, conceptual thinking, and intellectual sharpness. It demands mental endurance by engaging with complex texts and various perspectives, leading readers to think critically and cultivate the ability to form well-informed opinions.
Attention Span: The fast-paced nature of videos contributed to a shortened attention span. Viewers have become accustomed to quick information delivery in a short time with constant visual transitions. Their ability to prolonged focus has been paralyzed. Conversely, reading develops the skill of attentiveness for extended periods. The process of understanding written text and following a line of reasoning over many pages strengthens intellectual muscles for concentrated focus.
In conclusion, while visual learning through videos offers some advantages, reading remains a more efficient and effective means of learning. It fosters deeper understanding, enhances language skills, stimulates cognitive development, promotes retention and recall, encourages critical thinking, and strengthens attention span.
Therefore, while watching videos can complement learning, prioritizing reading is essential for maximizing learning and intellectual progress. For the person pursuing growth, reading must be a vital discipline in our visual age.
[1] Why do we remember more by reading in print vs. on a screen?< https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/reading-memory/>
