Kindle takes the weight off the backs of college students

By Ericka Rondeau · Guest Reporter
Published November 17, 2009

Students can now download their textbooks, periodicals, and games onto a portable device which may, in the long run, make textbooks obsolete. The sleek look and convenience of the electronic “Kindle” makes it much easier for students to pack around than books and takes the burden off their backs.

Kindles are slim, sleek, lightweight electronic devices (imagine an iPhone but larger) that can download books in just 60 seconds with no PC required. They come with 3G wireless that lets users download books straight to the Kindle with no contracts, no monthly fees and no searching for Wi-Fi hotspots. Kindle also includes a Text-to-Speech feature which means the device can read newspapers, magazines, blogs, and books out loud to users.

Kindle devices, ranging from $300 to $500, are somewhat expensive for college students but can save them from having to purchase textbooks, for long term savings of hundreds of dollars. Students are largely unaware of the Kindle. “I don’t even know what that is,” UCC’s Brittany Lott said.

Although many students do not know what a “Kindle” is, the concept is appealing. Current UCC student Tabatha Burton explains, “I would much rather carry around a Kindle. The relief on my back from not having to carry around the multiple books would be amazing. I would be willing to believe most other students would probably agree.” The 6” Kindle weighs only ten ounces, compared to a bundle of textbooks which could easily weigh more than ten pounds.

There have been some difficulties with using Kindle devices, beyond the complaints about the price. Early users said the screen was too hard to read. But some changes have made the screen bigger and easier to read on newer versions. Students can also download more text books at a faster rate on newer Kindles.

A text download now takes only about 60 seconds. The 6” Kindle can download 1,500 books with wireless nd Text-to-Speech, among other features. The 9.7” Kindle DX is a bit more costly, but is easier to read with the larger screen. It offers a capacity of up to 3,500 book downloads at a cost of $489.00.

Many have raised the question if switching to Kindle devices rather than textbooks could have an impact on how students study because many students enjoy being able to highlight as well as write notes in the margins of their textbooks. Depending on one’s own preference, Kindle may or may not be the right choice.

In the near future, Kindle is considering adapting to a design in which the screen would be able to roll up or fold to make the device even more convenient.