The initial thought when parents and educators hear the words ‘screen time’ is likely not a positive one. Headlines often link screen time to falling reading scores and interest, but a more nuanced view is emerging; not all digital platforms are created equal. In fact, evidence shows that when used purposefully, digital reading tools can not only increase access to books but can help drive engagement and improve literacy outcomes.
Screens with purpose: a case for digital reading
According to the Grattan Institute, one in 3 Australian students lacks basic reading skills. Schools are responding with renewed focus on evidence-based literacy instruction, but they’re also looking to technology to help close the access gap; particularly for students who struggle to find books that suit their interests, needs, or abilities.
Many students, particularly struggling readers, can become overwhelmed finding a book in the physical library. They might be embarrassed to select a book at their reading level in front of their classmates. Digital tools like Sora enable students to find books at their reading level and interests in a fun and rewarding way.
Today’s students are entering school with more digital literacy than ever before and there is an advantage to leaning into this skill. Educators can meet students where they are and introduce screen time with a purpose. Students do still need to be taught digital literacy skills and develop over time. Sora is a safe space to hone digital literacy skills to search, filter, and find a book to read. Students can also highlight quotes and make annotations, facilitating greater engagement with books. Students can share these with the teacher or class enhancing classroom discussion. They can even engage with their peers with the ability for schools’ local content like student written short stories and poetry to be uploaded to Sora.
Sora, used in thousands of schools across the world, including Australian schools, provides access to ebooks, audiobooks, comics, magazines, and more – all in one platform. Unlike other types of screen time, Sora is designed to keep students reading, not scrolling. And it makes it simple to read at home, at school, and on the go with the devices students are already using every day. School holidays is a great time to use Sora, especially if the school library doesn’t permit borrowing or parents are afraid of losing physical books while travelling.
Digital reading, measurable growth
New data from The State of K-12 Digital Reading: Australia & New Zealand Report from Sora shows that reading sessions in Sora increased 10% over the last school year. While ebooks continue to be the most popular format, audiobook usage is rising – especially among students who benefit from listening while they read or who find traditional print formats challenging. Students in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria led the nation in ebook and audiobook checkouts.
Popular genres across all states and territories include humour, graphic novels, and fantasy – a clear indicator that students are more likely to engage when they have choice in what they read. The titles students borrow most are a mix of global bestsellers and local favourites, from The Hunger Games and Harry Potter to Australian authors like Anh Do, Nova Weetman, and John Marsden.
One of the advantages of digital reading lies in its ability to not only give more access to books but it also gives educators visibility in student reading habits. In tools like Sora, teachers can track how often students are reading, how long they’re spending with books, and which formats they’re choosing. This data allows for more targeted interventions and supports differentiated instruction –key components of effective literacy development.
A smarter way to use screens
Rather than asking students to unplug entirely, what if we gave them better reasons to stay connected? Reading on digital platforms gives students more access, more formats, and more ways to engage. And for many, it’s not a departure from how they learn but a natural extension. Used thoughtfully, screen time doesn’t stand in the way of literacy; it can help students connect with reading in ways that feel natural and accessible.
Learn more about the Sora student reading app at DiscoverSora.com/global
References
Hunter, J., Stobart, A., and Haywood, A. (2023). The Reading Guarantee: How to give every child the best chance of success. Grattan Institute.
