The role of digital reading technologies in developing language and literacy skills

Abstract

EBooks and other forms of digital reading technology are becoming increasingly popular in classrooms due to their perceived ability to improve engagement and positively contribute to language and literacy skills. This research study seeks to answer the question: Can eBooks be utilized to help improve early literacy and language skills, and contribute to the engagement of readers?  In an effort to answer this question data was collected from an online survey created using Google Forms. This survey data was further analyzed through an interview process. The survey data retrieved provides a surface level understanding of the perceived value of digital reading technologies. The data retrieved from this study indicates that digital reading technologies are convenient and can increase the accessibility of reading materials, but that further research is necessary to determine the specific role of digital reading technologies in improving early literacy and language skills.