Online Book Clubs for Preteens and Teens

Discussing

Online Book CLubs for Preteens and Teens

By: Sara ParkerMEDA 5950

This article did prove that its findings are both practical and statistically significant. Scharber notes that these online book clubs showed positive results on these students when it came to improving their literacy skills and it helped foster their love of reading. These findings point to the direction of these book clubs being an effective strategy to promote literacy. These book clubs also help with open discussions among peers. This manuscript grounds the concept of online book clubs in theory and research and details two online book clubs geared for preteens and teens offered through a metropolitan public library system." (Scharber et al., 2009)

The Practical Significance

It is very practical to begin thinking beyond the classroom in many instances as long as students are aware of their learning environment. This article examines two library-based online book clubs for preteens and teens. Their findings showed that these online book clubs are fun and engaging for their members. "researchers are beginning to take notice of the possibilities that exist for literacy and learning outside of the classroom" (Scharber et al.,2009)

Statistical Significance

9 in 10

American teens are internet users

54%

of 9 year olds read almost everyday for fun. Only 22% of 17 year olds do.

Over the past 20 years

reading scores are plummeting and reading voluntarily is diminishing.

Comprehension Test Scores

are lower among both 13 and 17 year olds.

93%

of teenagers are online

References:

Scharber, C. M., Melrose, A., & Wurl, J. (2009). Online book clubs for preteens and teens. Library Review, 58(3), 176-195. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530910942036