Arguments in Favor (Yes, Audiobooks Are Better)
Audiobooks offer unmatched convenience. With a smartphone or digital device, students can listen to educational content while commuting, doing chores, or exercising. This flexibility helps learners make better use of time and increases exposure to more books.
For auditory learners, audiobooks improve comprehension and retention. The expressive narration often adds depth, making stories come alive and helping listeners grasp tone, emotion, and emphasis—things that might be missed during silent reading.
Moreover, audiobooks can make literature more accessible for students with dyslexia, vision problems, or other reading challenges. This inclusive approach ensures that every learner can enjoy and benefit from books regardless of their learning abilities.
Arguments Against (No, Physical Books Are Better)
Physical books offer a tactile experience that enhances focus and memory. Studies suggest that reading printed material improves comprehension and recall better than listening, especially in academic contexts where critical thinking and note-taking are important.
Holding a book, flipping pages, highlighting text, and writing notes in the margins help students engage more actively. This interaction is difficult with audiobooks, where multitasking may lead to distractions and shallow listening.
Additionally, physical books do not rely on batteries, devices, or internet access, making them more reliable and widely accessible, especially in Nigerian schools where electricity and digital access can be inconsistent or limited.
Conclusion
Both audiobooks and physical books offer unique advantages. Audiobooks bring flexibility, accessibility, and engagement, while physical books promote deep focus, better comprehension, and interactive reading. The choice depends on the learner’s style, the purpose of reading, and the resources available. Schools can consider offering both to enhance learning for all students.
