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The importance of reading

In this video, Dr Dan Jones, talks about the importance of reading and taking a critical approach in academic study.

Reading is a key part of your studies, because it’s one of the main ways you access knowledge in your field.

In this video Dr Dan Jones, talks about the types of text you’ll have to read. He makes a distinction between essential reading and recommended reading, suggesting that to a certain extent you have to make decisions about what to read, and the depth in which you read. He emphasises the importance of reading critically, which involves assessing the content of the text in relation to your prior knowledge of the topic, your experience, or other reading you have done on the topic. He recommends reading for enjoyment, reading extensively and reading for a range of different perspectives.


Now you’ve watched the video, we’d like to hear your thoughts.

  • Do you enjoy reading? Why/why not?

  • Do you prefer reading online or on paper? Why?

Share your thoughts in the comments area below. Don’t forget, you can also ‘Like’ and ‘Reply’ to comments made by others.

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