Reading Vs Watching Videos has grown to be a topic of consideration with the growing digital age. Not so long ago, owning a collection of books was a matter of pride. Most educated and intellectuals still cultivate a habit of reading in their lifestyle. But, with the increased introduction of the ‘digital spaces’ in the academic area, the percentage of ‘readers’ has gone down considerably. Especially among the ‘digital generation’, getting hold of a book and staying with it has become a challenge. But, what do the experts, research, and general public have to say about Reading Vs Watching videos? Let us find out:
Contents
1. The Original ‘Sense’
Man is a ‘visual’ animal. From the beginning of time, it was essential for him to express himself. The utilization of ‘script’ to record his thoughts, feelings, expressions, and opinions soon grew to become an essential part of any civilization. This led to the emergence of literature that has helped shape our cultures through time. Today we stand tall in the ‘digital age. The humble paper has an ultra-smart rival in the form of digital options like Videos and other online platforms. But, one thing stays true throughout time. The involvement of the Human senses when they ‘read’; as compared to when they ‘watch’. One must know that reading is an active process. It involves our brains to comprehend the formation of Symbols and characters. Meanwhile, the reading also involves our imagination in the process, where we get to ‘personally visualize’ in our minds. Hence, it puts to play various Human senses, to ‘read’.
Subsequently, watching Videos is much of a Passive process. It is more like ‘spoon feeding’, where you do not have to put too much effort to ‘comprehend’ what you are watching. Your senses need not be at high alert to make sense of the matter you are watching. Here, the interpretation part is done by the video itself, without the brain having to work for it. Conclusively, your Cognitive senses are not at play when watching a video, unlike when you read.
2. Information And Presentation
Research has proved that the process of reading allows objective and descriptive information. On the other hand, Video watching is more of a subjective and efficient process. Also, it is quite convenient. If you require a piece of more objective and descriptive information, reading is a good choice. Being highly descriptive, reading allows its message to be presented to allow non-ambiguous interpretations by the reader.
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3. The Power Of Controls
Reading is a sure winner in this case. A reader can control the pace they wish to ‘decipher’ the information. On the other hand, watching videos somehow dictates how the information is deciphered. Sometimes, it is too fast or too slow for a reader, as it has been pre-decided by the creator of the video. For persons with slow reading abilities or better understanding requirements, a book is the best bet.
4. The Option For Difficulty
Here, we need to give credit to the Video watching option. Is there a topic or discussion that requires more visual assistance? Well, you need to catch it on a video. Most times, a video is a great tool to simplify complicated topics. On the other hand, most experienced writers will not be able to offer the kind of clarity that one requires for a better understanding of a certain concept. For example, the theory of Quantum Mechanics is better understood through a Video. The same concept appears to be ‘Science and expert exclusive’ on the paper.
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5. Information Overload
Sometimes it is just too much. There is information everywhere on the web. The platforms are too many, and the options are simply innumerable. Also, digital devices are too many and too available for all. Now a simple topic has infinite versions and opinions that flood from all sides of the internet. It is safe to say that the web is a ‘black hole’ of information where you might never entirely come to the bottom of a certain argument. This can get too overwhelming. After all, how do you decide after all? Which side are you at? Moreover, the pace of comprehension is never normal. Before you can finally conclude, you find yourself on the crossroad of paradoxes.
Reading: Pros And Cons
So, how and why is a book special to us? Let us weigh the pros and cons:
Pros & Cons Of Reading Books
- Offers control over to the reader itself.
- Is an active activity where your senses are completely involved.
- Helps enhance language and Grammar skills
- Not the best option for more complicated and practical events
Watching Videos: Pros And Cons
Pros & Cons Of Watching Videos
- Is a perfect option for more practical events
- You can learn the right and correct pronunciation through watching videos
- This is a more Passive method of learning
- There are more chances of wasting time once you get a hang of watching videos. There is too much information around
Reading Vs Watching Videos: The Difference
What is the difference between Reading And Watching Videos? Let us find out:
READING | WATCHING VIDEOS |
The pace is decided by the reader | The video dictates the pace |
Not exactly suitable for explaining complex theories, events, and concepts | Is a perfect option for explaining and understanding a complicated concept |
Reading is a good choice if you wish to store a certain piece of information for later references | Does not assists the retention aspect of the information or a piece of text for future references |
Is an economic option for learning, teaching, grasping, and future references, as compared to the digital tools | Digital options are expensive in comparison |
Enhances the development of Senses in the Human mind | Does nothing for the enhancement of human senses |
Is a great option if you wish to enhance your language, Grammar, and reading skills | Is great for developing one’s pronunciation |
Reading Vs Watching Videos: The Conclusion- Which one is Better?
Reading wins the race. Nevertheless, keeping the current digital age in mind, we need to develop a ‘hybrid’ mode of learning. This should be a fine blend of both Reading and Watching Videos. As both the options have their benefits; one must know how to apply a certain model for a certain requirement.
Before You Go:
There is something very romantic about messages in between the leaves of a book. It is almost therapeutic to feel the paper under your fingers and flip it through. After all, nothing is better than to curl with your favorite read on a rainy day with a hot cup of cocoa. Books have been important to us because of the certain sense of personalization that they offer. They speak to you without making a noise. You feel content at the end of a good read and a book can be relished.