Teachers across Nigeria have expressed concern over a growing trend among schoolchildren who attempt to swipe and tap physical books as if they were mobile phones or tablets.
Educators say the behavior reflects the increasing influence of digital devices on children’s learning habits. Many students, especially at the primary school level, are becoming more accustomed to screens than printed materials.
Teachers report that some pupils show frustration when books do not respond like touchscreens. Others struggle with sustained reading, preferring fast-paced digital content over traditional study methods.
Education experts warn that excessive screen exposure may affect concentration, reading comprehension, and critical thinking skills. While technology offers learning advantages, they caution against its unchecked use without balance.
Parents have been advised to monitor children’s screen time and encourage reading habits at home. Some schools are also reviewing their teaching approaches to integrate technology responsibly without undermining foundational literacy skills.
- Teachers have called on education authorities to provide clear guidelines on digital learning, stressing that books remain essential for cognitive development.
