Publication at Faculty of Arts |
2020
Abstract
This article explores the (dis)comforts of reading in print vs. digital formats. We ran a qualitative study with 36 student respondents across six countries and found that reading can be uncomfortable, but that physical discomfort is sometimes the reader's preferred choice.
Based on our data we discuss how the reading device, type of text and purpose of reading relate to different bodily postures and physical environments. We conclude with a discussion of the material advantages of the single-purpose nature of print books.