This is primarily a writing course and not a technology course, but in my view it is difficult to separate the two when so much communication these days, both business and personal, takes place using cell phones and computers and tablets. When it comes to writing and reading, though, most of us are somewhere in the middle between paper-only and screen-only.
I’m someone who loves real bookstores and paper books, but I’m finding myself doing more and more of my reading on my iPad. For many decades, until very recently, I did all of my first drafts by hand (yellow legal pads with a black cartridge pen or a fine line Razor point), but I’m doing most of my drafting now on a computer. Still, if I have something I need to read carefully, I often find myself printing out an article so I can take notes in the margins. When I’m getting my ideas together, I almost always still start with a pen. Somehow that blinking cursor feels too intimidating in its insistence that I put just one letter right where it sits there blinking impatiently, and I prefer to be able to sprawl and scrawl over a whole empty page when I’m not yet sure of what I want to say. Once I get some details down on the page, I can organize things more efficiently if I can use arrows and circles to mark things and move chunks of my ideas around. It’s only then that I move to a keyboard, and often after I type something, I go back to paper because it seems easier often to revise, edit, and proofread a paper copy.
My main point: I don’t expect all of you to be comfortable with a fully-electronic class and with doing your work only on a screen. Some of you may be, and that’s fine, but don’t worry if you still prefer to do much of your reading or writing on paper.
As we start this class, I’d like you to think about what you’ve been comfortable in the past with in terms of paper and screen and what perhaps you might be willing to experiment with a bit this semester. For the most part (except for final drafts) we will be getting things back and forth electronically through this blog and your individual blogs. The main reason for this is convenience. But if you’re more comfortable reading on a page, by all means print things out. If you’d rather compose with a pen, go ahead, but then you need to type up a second (or third or fourth) draft. If you haven’t done much with on-screen reading and writing, though, you might want to try it out.
Remember to think about practical issues like computer and internet access. If that’s an issue for you, you’ll need to think about a plan that may involve building time into your schedule to use a computer lab on campus and getting a flash drive (or using some other method like email or Dropbox) to move files between computers as necessary. Please feel free to talk to me if you’d like instruction or some help brainstorming strategies.
I personally, prefer to use screen. I have done a lot of my work on the computer and have easily learned in a highly computerized environment! Don’t get me wrong I do still like to write, almost all my rough drafts then finally drafts are written down before they are finally typed and then submitted. Computers certainly help us clean up our work some software points our Grammar errors we don’t notice right away when writing on paper. So, Yeah, I’m all for screen.
When it comes to reading I do so primarily through a physical copy on paper. I find it easier to follow the words on the page when I can physically hold the book. Although I now prefer writing on the computer that wasn’t always the case. Growing up the usage of computers was not as prominent as it is in today’s schooling so much of my draft and brainstorming work was on paper. I find it easier to edit and scratch up the paper when you can just scribble on all the margins and highlight your work on a piece of paper, but my typing skills are faster than writing by hand.
What I love the most about reading, it gives you the ability to reach higher ground, I love physical book paper, because I feel connected when reading the actual paper, but through writing I rather typing on a computer versus writing down paper. I find it easier to edit and easily erased on a computer than a paper
I prefer to read physical paper items, such as books. Personally, it is a lot harder for me to focus when trying to read certain things digitally. However, it really depends on the content. I don’t mind reading shorter paragraphs digitally, but if there are multiple paragraphs I would prefer paper. When it comes to writing, I use a combination of writing on paper and using digital resources such as a computer or Ipad. I am a huge fan of the Apple Pencil, as it allows me to write on my Ipad as if it were paper. I often use a pen and paper to gather my thoughts and ideas. When I am finished brainstorming and organizing, I prefer using a computer to write. Often times when writing an essay, I will type it and print it out to revise with a pen or marker. Once I am done proof reading, I will go back on to the computer and update my paper.
Growing up I loved reading, loved the feel of a book in my hands, flipping through the pages I couldn’t wait to read the next page to see what happened. Reading books took me into another world where I could really use my imagination. I also used to love to write in a notebook or notepad, I would have several different colored pens and highlighters and loved putting my words down on paper. Now as an adult I occasionally still read an actual paperback book, but 90% of the time it is electronically. I still love reading but unfortunately don’t have as much time as I used to. When it comes to writing the only writing I do is at work when I am replying to an email or typing up a contract. I do not consider myself a writer in any sense, but look forward to this class and seeing what I can do.
When it comes to paper vs screen it varies for me. Now a days I don’t have much time to read but when I was younger and the rare occasion that I have a little time now, I prefer a paper back book. For me I enjoy sitting back relaxing with a book in my hand. I also tend to focus more with a physical book. The only writing I usually do is answering text messages or emails. When I used to write reports I preferred writing everything down on paper. I found it easier for me to change, move around and add things I needed too. My final drafts I prefer the computer. When I was younger I remember writing a final draft and miss spell a word or forget something and having to rewrite everything over again. Now if I have to write a final draft I prefer the computer because I can just go back quickly and fix the word or what I wrote wrong.
Personally i prefer screen, as in today’s day everything is computerized most of us have become customized too typing as far as (emails, reports, and also material searches). That being said i also do still like to jot down notes with either a pen or pencil on paper then finalize and proof read on screen.
When it comes to reading, I almost always prefer paper. To have a physical copy is like having a trophy. It is a display of your accomplishments, how much you have read, and that you have actually read something and can say you own it. I also like being able to actually see how much I’ve read and how much further I have to go. But sometimes, for the sake of money and quality, I will read a book on an electronic device.
For writing, I am a mix. I like being able to handwrite my thoughts. and sometimes having them as a physical rather than a digital copy is reassuring. It also gives me a sense of accomplishment and pride, that I was able to do something with my own hands. But for the sake of convenience and time, I will use a computer to write things out.
When it comes to paper vs. screen, I prefer screen. It’s easier for me to type work out rather than write it down and scratch it out. When it comes to reading, I would rather have a physical copy in hand. When I type something out, I am able to delete, and spell check easier.
I will sometimes write down notes on paper just to gather my thoughts. Also, I tend to write fast which makes it look messier. I work with computers daily and it has just become easier to use them for writing out papers.
To be honest, I feel like technology hates me, and the feeling is mutual. I would rather write with a pen and paper as well as read something printed. No matter what I seem to attempt on screen, it always takes me more time to get started than to do the actual task. I feel as if I can never quite get to what I’m looking for in one shot, whether it be typing a simple paper, or going to a specific website to read something. I get nervous and massive anxiety when starting to type something important because it seems inevitable that I will somehow erase it by accident (when I am just about finished too), or I just don’t seem to save it correctly. I always seem to loose what I am working on or trying to read, and I waste time and frustration on finding it again.I absolutely love writing with a pen and paper. I love taking pride in my penmanship, but just as well will rewrite something multiple times because it isn’t up to my standards. I have started to notice how things can be correctly done faster and neater on screen, once I finally start it that is. Technology is just something I am not yet comfortable with which is abnormal for my generation but I know once I learn to navigate around it more I just might change my mind.
For me personally it depends on the situation. Sometimes I may prefer a screen and other times I may prefer paper. The good thing about this is, most of the time I have free will to decide that. When it comes to writing, proof reading and brain storming ideas I prefer to do that on paper because I can be a little more unorganized and do things in a way that makes sense for me. Then I can type up my final draft(s) onto the computer. I am also not the best or fastest typer so writing it our can be a little quicker just to get the ideas out. When it comes to reading something like a book I would refer paper because in most instances the lettering is small and I will get a heading from trying to read with the light from a computer. If it is an article are something similar than I prefer to use a computer.
My choice between paper and screens is a bittersweet experience for me. Screens are an unavoidable part of my daily life, from work to leisure. However, the constant exposure leaves my eyes strained and tired. I believe paper offers a tactile, calming experience that screens can’t match. The rustle of pages creates a deeper, more interesting reading experience. I struggle with finding a balance. Incorporating more paper-based reading and writing into my routine helps counteract screen fatigue and provides moments of quiet reflection. Finding the time is a different struggle. Digital screen provides me more convenience, making it the easier way for me to read. I do, however, prefer to do work on paper. I learn when I write things down. I am more comfortable completing my final product on screen.
Paper vs Screen
When it comes to reading and writing on paper versus screen, I don’t have a preference for reading. I read a lot of articles on the internet because it’s easily accessible. However, when it comes to writing, I prefer to use paper. For some reason, looking at the computer screen makes it hard for me to think about what to write. With paper, I can process my thoughts better before transferring them to the computer and typing them out.
Paper vs Screen
I honestly like both , sometimes i will write things out then i will type it on a computer. When is comes to reading i do like the screen better then the paper, reading articles and news and everything else from a phone or computer screen is just easy access , as for a book I just get to bored to easily.
Paper vs Screen, I used to prefer reading a good book and jotting notes on paper when I was younger, but I suppose that is because computers were not as affordable as they are today. You could always find me in some corner of a library, or sitting by a window ledge, reading about far-off adventures in the “fiction” section, or some new craft project in the “how to” section, or even in the science section learning about different technologies and how they can help us adapt in a world that is not always “user friendly.” However, as the world has changed, so has my opinion. I have found that screens have allowed me to find information within text so much quicker, and the use of side-by-side is very helpful with research papers. I, like you, have also found it difficult to stare at the dreaded “blinking curser.” Something that has helped me is using dictation software or a speech-to-text app to get those “creative juices” flowing a bit faster. I can use my headphones and mic (wireless), stand up, walk around, and just start talking. It allows me to “type” much faster than if I were to use a keyboard. Editing with my voice has become effortless because I can select entire paragraphs and move them around as needed, all with a simple voice prompt. I also love the text-to-speech options when my eyes are just too tired to read, or my brain is having difficulty focusing on what I’ve just read. I think we all have had those moments, the “How many times can I reread the same line or paragraph and still not remember what I just read.” I used to find those moments so mentally draining, but with a little playing around with the speed settings and sometimes the tone settings as well, I can have someone read it to me, and I am able to retain the information much more easily. I still love a good book in my hand, and I think I will always enjoy it. But when it comes to writing, I’ve definitely moved toward the digital side. (I accidentally posted this under the Good Ancestor page on June 7th)
I have always been passionate about expressing my thoughts and ideas through words. In my quest to become a better writer, I have adopted a multi-faceted approach that involves both traditional pen-and-paper methods and modern digital tools.
When inspiration strikes, I often reach for my trusty notebook and favorite pen, allowing my thoughts to flow freely on the blank pages. There is something liberating about the tactile sensation of pen scratching against paper, giving life to my ideas in their rawest form. This initial handwritten draft serves as a foundation for my writing process, enabling me to capture the essence of my thoughts without the constraints of a blinking cursor demanding perfection.
However, as I transition from brainstorming to drafting, I find myself gravitating towards my computer screen. The convenience and efficiency of typing allow me to organize my ideas more effectively, rearranging paragraphs, adding details, and refining my sentences with ease. The digital realm offers me the flexibility to experiment with different structures and styles, empowering me to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers.
Despite my growing reliance on digital tools, I still value the tangible interaction of printed materials. When it comes to revising and editing my work, I often prefer to have a physical copy in hand, allowing me to annotate, mark up, and make revisions with a pen in hand. The tactile feedback of paper enhances my editing process, enabling me to spot errors, clarify ideas, and polish my writing to perfection.
In my journey to enhance my writing skills, I have embraced a hybrid approach that combines the best of both worlds – the creative freedom of pen and paper and the precision of digital editing. By incorporating diverse writing techniques and tools into my practice, I strive to cultivate a unique writing style that captivates and engages readers, one word at a time.
Deciding whether to use paper or a screen for reading and writing depends on what you find most comfortable and practical. Some people like the feel of paper and find it easier to write notes and brainstorm ideas on it. Paper allows for more freedom when organizing thoughts. On the other hand, screens are convenient for quick edits and sharing work with others. They also help save paper. Your choice should consider what feels best for you, what the task requires, and whether you have access to the technology you need.
I don’t have a preference for reading on paper or a screen. I find both methods to work for me depending on the context. However, I prefer writing on a screen because I tend to make a lost of mistakes and using devices like a computer helps me catch and correct mistakes more easily, and its significantly faster and neater.