The Rise of Social Reading and its Impact on Libraries

The Rise of Social Reading and its Impact on Libraries

In today's digital age, the way people consume and engage with content has drastically changed. One phenomenon that has emerged is social reading, where individuals share their thoughts and ideas about what they have read with others. This concept not only helps books become more memorable but also fosters better idea formation and explanation through shared writing and thoughts (Johnson, et. al, 2011). So why should libraries care about social reading?

One of the main reasons people join traditional book clubs is for the social interaction it provides. Being able to discuss a common interest with fellow members is a motivating factor for many (AuYeung, Dalton, & Gornall, 2007). However, online book clubs can often lack the same level of interaction and unpredictability in membership (AuYeung, Dalton, & Gornall, 2007). This is where social reading platforms like Kindle come in.

The Kindle has introduced features that encourage readers to share their thoughts and highlights with other Kindle users. For example, the "popular highlights" feature shows phrases that multiple readers have highlighted, sparking discussions and connections among readers (Johnson, 2010). Additionally, the Kindle's lending function allows readers to share books with friends after completing them, promoting a sense of community and shared reading experiences (Cain Miller, 2011).

However, despite the rise of social reading and its benefits, there are still concerns about the loss of the personal, physical connection that physical books provide (Ng, 2010). Books that have been known and handled often hold sentimental value and capture a connection to the past that e-books may not be able to replicate. This is an important consideration for libraries as they aim to preserve the traditional reading experience while also embracing the digital age.

Moving beyond social reading, the field of online education has also undergone significant changes. With educational content readily available on platforms like YouTube and social media, the focus has shifted from content to community. People can access learning-related content easily, but the challenge lies in sustaining engagement and achieving meaningful learning outcomes.

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) gained popularity in the 2010s but have faced challenges in terms of completion rates. On average, MOOC completion rates range from 3 to 6 percent (source). This gap between the promise of online education and its actual results has led to the rise of cohort-based courses (CBCs).

Cohort-based courses are interactive online courses where a group of students progresses through the material together. These courses prioritize hands-on, feedback-based learning and foster a sense of community among participants. Unlike MOOCs, which often have low completion rates, cohort-based courses have seen completion rates as high as 96 percent (source).

One of the key factors driving the success of cohort-based courses is the sense of community they create. In today's content-rich world, what is scarce in online learning is community. Research has shown that collaboration and interaction with fellow students lead to higher test scores and better learning outcomes (edX study, Harvard study). Cohort-based courses leverage this social aspect of learning to improve engagement and accountability.

Moreover, cohort-based courses offer a more active and hands-on learning experience. Students engage in various activities such as breakouts, role-playing, discussions, and debates, allowing them to apply their knowledge and learn from their mistakes. This format brings the network benefits of startup accelerators to a wider market, providing students with valuable connections and exposure to new ideas (source).

For creators and educators, cohort-based courses offer a more sustainable model for monetizing their expertise. Traditional social platforms often separate monetization activities from community building, making it challenging for creators to earn a living solely from advertising. Cohort-based courses, on the other hand, provide a productized offering that allows creators to leverage their time and effort. By building a course once and running multiple cohorts, creators can earn substantial income while fostering a community of learners (source).

In conclusion, both social reading and cohort-based courses have revolutionized how people engage with content and learn online. Libraries should embrace social reading platforms like Kindle to encourage community engagement and shared reading experiences. Additionally, they should consider incorporating cohort-based courses into their educational offerings to provide a more interactive and hands-on learning experience. Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace online platforms that facilitate social reading and encourage readers to share their thoughts and highlights. This will foster a sense of community and deepen the reading experience.

2. Explore the potential of cohort-based courses as a way to enhance online education offerings. By prioritizing active learning, hands-on activities, and community building, libraries can provide a more engaging and effective learning experience for their patrons.

3. Support creators and educators in developing and monetizing cohort-based courses. By providing resources and guidance, libraries can empower creators to share their expertise and build sustainable online communities.

By incorporating these strategies, libraries can adapt to the changing landscape of reading and education and continue to be valuable resources for their communities.