The exponential growth of technology, while facilitating effortless access to information, poses a significant challenge to the time-honored tradition of reading. At SNA Marianapolis, we are committed to fostering a vibrant reading culture, encouraging students to delve into the enriching world of literature, thereby nurturing their intellectual curiosity and holistic development.
The Contemporary Landscape of Youth Reading Habits
In the digital epoch, the ascendancy of information technology has profoundly reshaped the cognitive behaviors of young individuals. This paradigm shift has led to a pronounced dominance of “audiovisual culture” over “reading culture,” presenting formidable obstacles to the reading habits of Vietnamese youth.
As articulated by the Director of Hanoi Department of Education and Training, a mere 30% of Vietnamese individuals engage in regular reading, with 26% abstaining entirely and 44% participating sporadically. This alarming trend is attributed to academic pressures, the allure of online entertainment, and a superficial approach to reading material. The repercussions of this cultural deficit extend beyond mere knowledge gaps and critical thinking deficiencies, permeating the individual’s holistic development, encompassing aesthetic sensibilities and societal awareness.
The Gradually Obscured Merits of Reading
Despite the relentless march of technological advancement, the intrinsic value of reading remains steadfast. Books, those timeless repositories of knowledge, continue to serve as perennial fountains of inspiration, fostering creativity and facilitating personal evolution. Reading, far from being a mere recreational pursuit, constitutes a pivotal instrument in cultivating intellectual prowess and equipping young minds with the indispensable skill sets necessary for navigating the complexities of the future.
Creative Acumen
Every page of a book, veritable portals to diverse and vibrant realms of imagination, empowers children to construct rich and elaborate mental landscapes. As they immerse themselves in narratives, they learn to visualize intricate plots, characters, and events, thereby stimulating the development of creative cognition, problem-solving dexterity, and innovative thinking. These skills are invaluable in both academic endeavors and the quotidian aspects of life.
Linguistic Proficiency
Reading also plays a transformative role in enhancing linguistic and writing proficiency. Exposure to an array of literary genres and scholarly texts expands vocabulary and refines expressive capabilities. Consequently, students acquire a repertoire of novel expressions, augmenting their ability to communicate effectively and write with clarity and coherence. In an increasingly interconnected world, linguistic mastery is paramount for successful interaction across professional and personal domains. Reading empowers individuals to delve into their own thoughts and comprehend complex concepts with greater depth and nuance.
Empathic Capacity
Beyond linguistic development, reading broadens children’s understanding of the world. Each book serves as a window into diverse cultures, personalities, and challenges. As they mature, students gain profound insights into human nature, global dynamics, and societal structures. This exposure cultivates empathy and fosters a deeper connection with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds and life circumstances.
Critical Thinking Skills
Regular engagement with literature cultivates critical thinking and concentration. To decipher and retain intricate details, children must focus and analyze narratives and information meticulously. This practice not only enhances memory but also provides invaluable training for analytical and evaluative skills, vital for academic success and future careers.
Nurturing a Reading Culture at SNA Marianapolis
Amidst the digital deluge, SNA Marianapolis champions a unique reading culture, where a passion for books is nurtured and sustained. The Library Program, the cornerstone of this mission, is not merely a repository of knowledge but a catalyst for discovery and personal growth.
Designed to ignite a lifelong love of reading, the program encourages students to develop critical reading, analytical, and research skills. Through storytelling sessions, book discussions, and exploration of the Dewey Decimal System, students learn to appreciate the value of literature.
Storytelling sessions, integral to the program, foster inter-grade interaction and cultivate a sense of community. These sessions enhance communication skills and instill a sense of responsibility towards library resources.
The program also emphasizes research skills, including accurate citation and multimedia presentation. Collaborations with renowned bookstores like FAHASA and Phuong Nam during “Reading Week” provide opportunities for students to explore new books and share insights with peers and teachers. These initiatives do more than encourage reading. They nurture a profound love for knowledge within every student.
SNA Marianapolis International School
- Location: 397, 30/4 Street, Trung Dung Ward, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province
- Website: https://snamarianapolis.edu.vn/
- Hotline: 0932 083 886
- Email: info@snamarianapolis.edu.vn
