An increasing number of schools provide tablets and laptop computers for students to use in school, replacing books and other printed materials like exams and assignments. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend

In recent years, the approach of digitalizing school learning materials has risen in popularity over the alternative of traditional printed
books
and tests.
This
essay will highlight both the benefits and drawbacks that would result from that approach.
To begin
with the positives, one crucial advantage of using digital gadgets
such
as tablets and laptops as educational resources in schools is its sustainability.
This
is because these devices are reusable, require no paper, and
thus
save a lot of trees from being cut down.
In contrast
, studies have shown that nearly thirty-two million trees are felled annually just for papermaking in the United States alone, which causes a lot of environmental problems.
Moreover
, e-
books
are more portable and save up a lot of space. As they are very lightweight and require less storage space. To illustrate, you can have hundreds of
books
and materials in one place without the need to carry many volumes.
Nevertheless
, replacing
books
and other printed materials with digital ones does present a number of problems.
For instance
, prolonged exposure to the blue light emitted by these devices can cause eye strain, leading to other symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Another significant con is limiting the tactile experience, especially when considering young learners. The reason for
this
is that printed
books
offer a multi-sensory experience that e-
books
cannot fully provide. The tactile experience of flipping
books
, smelling the ink mixed with paper, and feeling the weight of the book in your hand does contribute to fully developing the senses of kids.
Therefore
, omitting the usage of
books
from
such
a young age might lead to the underdevelopment of their sensory nervous system. In conclusion,
although
providing students with digital devices to use has a number of pros,
such
as their convenience and mobility when compared with physical resources, It’s important to consider that they
also
harm the vision of learners and limit the number of senses used.
Submitted by m.mahmoud.2005 on

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task achievement
Consider providing more specific examples or data to bolster your arguments, especially regarding the health implications of using digital devices.
coherence cohesion
Try to define key terms clearly to ensure the reader fully understands your points, such as 'sustainability' or 'tactile experience'.
introduction conclusion present
The essay effectively introduces the topic and outlines a balanced view of the advantages and disadvantages.
logical structure
There is a good logical flow from one point to the next, making the essay easy to follow.
relevant specific examples
You provided relevant examples to illustrate your points, such as the environmental impact of paper production.

Your opinion

Don’t put your opinion unless you are asked to give it.

If the question asks what you think, you MUST give your opinion to get a good score.

Don’t leave your opinion until the conclusion.

Here are examples of instructions that require you to give your opinion:

...do you agree or disagree?...do you think...?...your opinion...?

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • Interactive learning
  • Educational resources
  • Digital materials
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Carbon footprint
  • Investment
  • Distraction
  • Equality
  • Technology access
  • Technical issues
  • Prolonged use
  • Eye strain
  • Posture
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