We live in an increasingly digital age, with technology infiltrating all areas of society, from business to education. Despite this, there is a growing sense that a move away from traditional paper-based learning to a purely digital education brings with it negative effects and creates a less effective learning environment.
Earlier this year, the Swedish government announced plans to shift away from digital learning and bring back paper supplies in its schools, including the return of printed textbooks. And there is a similar wave of thinking taking hold in other educational settings around the world, too.
So, what are the distinct advantages of paper based learning in schools and how can it prove more effective than purely digital education?
The benefits of using paper in school
1. Helps students stay focused
Paper based learning promotes better focus and avoids the distractions created by screens and online education. It encourages a more methodical, immersive approach to work, helping students to remain concentrated on the task at hand, rather than getting distracted by notifications or internet access, or resorting to unproductive multi-tasking.
2. Encourages deeper understanding
The tactile nature of paper supplies can have a positive impact on learning, by engaging multiple senses. Having physical pages to turn and writing out notes by hand facilitates the learning process and research has shown that it prompts students to process the information more fully, increasing their understanding and memory of it.
3. Allows students to express themselves
Paper supplies also allow for a more imaginative, personalised approach to learning. With a variety of different papers available, from coloured paper to notecards and graph paper, students can express their ideas more creatively, helping them engage more deeply with the material, and commit more information to memory too.
4. Avoids digital disruption
The lifespan and reliability of printed materials is beneficial in an educational environment too. Paper is not subject to malfunction or corruption in the way digital files are, and it means that learning is not limited by internet connection or access limitations.
5. Makes education more accessible
Physical educational materials avoid limiting educational prowess to those who are more technologically competent.
While IT skills are undoubtedly important in the modern world, everyone develops digital abilities at a different pace, meaning that screen-based learning places those who are less proficient or comfortable with digital systems at a disadvantage when it comes to every area of learning. Paper-based learning puts every student on a level playing field, creating a fairer, more equal chance to succeed.
Stock up on school paper supplies with Springfield, to give your students the best chance of success.