Audio Books
The NY Times has an article discussing the growing popularity of audio books on tape, CD, ipod, etc. (registration required). I’ve been listening to audio books and books via audible.com for some time. The Times’ article also discusses those who disagree that listening to audio books is really reading. I find these to be rather snobbish arguments. A future post will discuss some of the techniques that can be used to increase your effectiveness of listening to books.
Besides the productivity enhancement (more opportunities to read books) for Extension professionals, we need to recognize the trend toward busy people using audio in place of reading or as a means to control what and when they hear items. The growing popluarity of podcasts is built around this control issue. It is a trend for Extension professionals to reflect on.