The Evolution of Print Media Usage Essay
Writing
Length: 2-3 Page Double-Spaced Summary + 1 Page Chart/Graph
Subject: Over the next full week (Monday through Sunday) I want you to monitor your print media usage. Keep a log of what you are reading on a daily basis. This includes books (textbooks, novels, manuals, training guides, etc.), magazines, newspapers, pamphlets and brochures, and any other print advertising or marketing pieces.
In addition, I want you to maintain a separate log of any digital media you use that was once considered print. What does this mean? Well, if you read online magazine or newspaper articles, consume ebooks/etextbooks, or follow any magazines, newspapers or book franchises on social media, then include them. You might find other examples as well.
After tracking your usage, please write a 2-3 page summary about your findings and include any surprises/unexpected results that may have stood out to you. In addition, answer the following questions:
- Do you read more, less or the same amount of print media compared to when you were younger? What about digital media?
- Have digital media and digital news outlets replaced your consumption of traditional print media? If so, why? If not, why not?
- Do you still read for pleasure? If so, what do you read? Is this part of your print media consumption or does it fall under “Internet?”
- How often do you read for class? In addition, how many textbooks do you have and do you prefer physical textbooks over digital material?
- Do you still think that print is a relevant and important medium? Or, are there more efficient and environmentally friendly ways to disseminate knowledge and ideas?
- What does the future hold for print media? Will books, magazines and newspapers soldier on or is there a storm brewing that will threaten each industry.
In addition to the summary, please create a one page graph or chart that breaks down your print media usage into individual categories. Be creative and go into detail here. The more you share the better.
