To-Print or Not-to-Print, for Newspapers like the Dallas Morning News this is a major issue. As far as newpapers are concerned, the issue is not “media” but content. We read papers and on-line publications for information and news. It is “About Content”.
As far as schools are concerned, I have mixed feelings about electronic books only. The efficiencies cited are valid. My observation is that printed material is proofed and re-proofed before publication because of the cost of printing. Electronic media is not. I am sorry it is not. When an error is found it can be changed on the fly, and cost almost nothing reproduce. So the economics of electronic media reduce accuracy, if you do not have feedback.
There is a further step that has more potential impact, but will be fought. That is distance learning. The concept appeals to me, being able to allow the best instructors to teach huge classes via the web. This is an exciting and dangerous approach. It is cost effective and can multiply the impact of the best instructors. Unfortunately it also lends itself open to propaganda and manipulation.
This could be a boost for home schooling. We did not home school our children, but I have seen evidence that if done properly it is better.
1984 revisionist history on the fly?
What's this we have now?