University Students’ Engagement with Textbooks in Print and E-book Formats

This usability study used eye tracking and questionnaires to observe 38 students’ scanpaths, navigation and use of features in a textbook. Results showed that students skimmed, scanned and flipped in the digital format. Students had some awareness of digital features, but did not use any features of the digital chapter, however, took notes and highlighted in print. Eye tracking is an effective method for testing library users’ experiences and one that needs to be further utilized. With the increased availability of e-books, university libraries can play a role in improving awareness and satisfaction of e-textbooks through education and promotion.