Reading in the digital age: Differences and commonalities across research approaches

Abstract

Reading, a cornerstone of children’s education, is deeply influenced by cultural and traditional factors. Despite a consensus on its critical role, divergent definitions of reading persist across disciplines and theoretical paradigms. In this perspective article, we capitalise on recent research, including our own, to illustrate how divergent approaches to reading can enrich each other. We argue that diverse perspectives on reading can transcend the simplistic dichotomy of print versus digital reading in contemporary public discussions, and foster a more nuanced understanding of literacy. Each of the authors outlines their distinctive approach and research findings, and we synthesise these insights to provide a more integrated comprehension of the intricate nature of reading in the current global educational context.