In the news: despite technology, still reasons to read

Timothy Shanahan, professor emeritus of curriculum and instruction, talks about reasons to encourage reading despite the prevalence of digital gadgets in the Aug. 15 Chicago Tribune.

“That’s going eyes wide open toward the future. It is saying, ‘Look, the competition for underwriting, the competition for funding, frankly the ability to sell these things on DVD fixed form is changing, so either we sit there and fret or let’s change with it.’”

Walter Podrazik, adjunct lecturer in communication, on HBO’s deal to broadcast “Sesame Street,” but preserve the program’s presence on PBS, Aug. 13 New Jersey Record.

“The ability to sustain an argument, to think through an idea extensively, is something our book culture has given us and that we can’t afford to lose. Even our most dedicated techies agree with that.”

Timothy Shanahan, professor emeritus of curriculum and instruction, on reasons to encourage reading despite the prevalence of digital gadgets, Aug. 15 Chicago Tribune

“We aren’t offering a prescription, just asking people to consider the state gun laws where they live.”

David Swedler, research assistant professor of environmental and occupational health sciences, on his findings that police officers are three times more likely to be killed on duty in states with the highest levels of gun ownership, Aug. 14 Chicago Tribune