Student Perception Of Traditional Versus Alternative Textbook Value
In today’s environment of rising tuition and textbook costs, we surveyed business majors concerning their preferences regarding various text options that are available for their academic studies. Specifically, we surveyed 329 students enrolled in upper-level business courses at a midlevel Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accredited Midwestern university. Students were asked to report the variety of classroom texts that they have utilized in the past and their text preferences based on their text experiences From the sample of students, 67% reported that they had used an online e-text for one or more of their classes. However, only 41 of the 220 students, or 19%, believed that the online e-text was a better learning vehicle or more convenient than the traditional text they used in their other classes. The entire sample of 329 students was also asked if they had a preference for a course text mode based on whether the course was a part of their major, involved extensive reading, analytical work, or was terminology oriented. In all areas, the students indicated a slight or strong preference for the traditional hard text.
Technology and Textbooks: The Future
ABSTRACT This article describes two separate studies: a survey of students’ textbook perceptions, purchases, and usage for e-textbooks and print textbooks and a conjoint analysis on e-textbook attributes. Print textbooks were perceived as easier to read, understand, and navigate, whereas e-textbooks were perceived to be cheaper. Students were willing to purchase e-textbooks, although most did not have e-readers. In the conjoint study, price was the most important attribute, followed by access to online study guides, videos, and quizzes and the duration of e-textbook accessibility. The ideal e-textbook was priced at 60% of the print textbook; was accessible for one year; and provided access to online study guides, videos, and quizzes.
Electronic Textbooks: A Pilot Study of Student E-Reading Habits
The day when students can trade their 30-pound book bags for lightweight portable reading devices no longer seems far in the future. Several companies are now marketing appliances that may be suitable for use in education and textbook publishers are cautiously converting some of their print titles into ebook formats. While few doubt the willingness of students to trade atoms for bits, little is known about how they might use e-books and the value digital technologies might add to the reading and learning experience. A few enterprising educators have begun conducting pilot studies to address these questions. The author shares the results of one e-textbook study.