As digital learning continues to evolve, eTextbooks are becoming an essential resource for students, offering features that traditional textbooks simply can't match.  

Pearson eTextbooks are available as part of a MyLab^® & Mastering^® course or with a subscription to Pearson+. Each title contains a variety of study tools and resources designed to increase student engagement and maximize learning.  

Here are the top eTextbook features that every instructor should know to help their students make the most of their studying – and their time. 

Audiobook 

Utilizing audiobooks offers students a flexible and accessible way to engage with course materials, especially for those who prefer auditory learning or have busy schedules.

With audiobooks, students can learn on the go, turning a commute or exercise time into productive study sessions. This format also supports better comprehension for students who may struggle with reading large volumes of text or those with visual impairments (read-along spotlighting helps students follow along as they listen). By providing an alternative method of absorbing information, audiobooks help students review material in a convenient and engaging way. 

Highlights & notes 

Within the eTextbook, students can create notes and highlights to ensure they engage with the material in real time – promoting active reading, which greatly enhances learning and retention. Actively engaging with the course material you’ve adopted will help students increase understanding and boost critical thinking.

The ability to categorize notes or highlights in different colors and patterns helps students better organize and track themes or important concepts throughout the text. Notes and highlights can be easily organized, searched, and revisited later in the notebook, making it much easier for students to review for exams without flipping – or scrolling – through the pages.  

Flashcards 

Incorporating flashcards into the eTextbook experience offers a dynamic way to reinforce learning. Students can create their own flashcards or use the pre-built flashcards created for their title. Study sessions are more efficient as flashcards are integrated directly into the eTextbook experience.

Flashcards allow students to actively engage in self-assessment by reviewing key terms and concepts in a quick and interactive format. Repetition and spaced learning methods strengthen memory, making it easier for students to recall information during exams or practical applications.   

AI-powered study tool* 

With capabilities like simplified explanations, on-demand summaries, and choose -our-own practice, the AI-powered study tool in an eTextbook helps students break down complex material, focus on key concepts, and receive guidance with challenging concepts to improve learning in the moment.

This intuitive, 24/7 study companion draws from vetted Pearson content to keep students engaged with the materials you’ve chosen for your course. The AI study tool gives students the simplicity they crave, eliminating the need to leave their assigned course material for help. Instead, support is provided anytime, anywhere within the assigned textbook. 

Text translation 

Translation capabilities in eTextbooks are powerful tools for students who are non-native speakers or studying foreign languages.

With the translate feature, students can highlight words or sections of text and effortlessly translate text on-screen in one of over 100 languages. This feature enables instant translation of words, sections of text, and unfamiliar terms, making the content more accessible and reducing language barriers.

This promotes a deeper understanding of the material and allows students to focus on learning the subject rather than struggling with language comprehension. Translation tools also help students expand their vocabulary in both their native and target languages, enhancing their overall learning experience. 

Enhanced search 

One of the top features of eTextbooks is enhanced search, which enables students to quickly find relevant content for study and review. With a minimum of three characters, search results will populate with related media, images, key terms, and even the student's own notes. 

Pearson+ mobile app 

The Pearson+ mobile app provides students with access to all their Pearson eTextbooks in one place. They can get anytime, anywhere access and take advantage of learning on the go – no wifi needed. 

*Available in select titles for the Fall 2024/Spring 2025 academic terms. 

To learn more about Pearson+, go to  https://www.pearson.com/en-us/higher-education/products-services/pearsonplus.html     

Looking for data-driven strategies to encourage student engagement and improved study with an eTextbook? Listen into this webinar hosted by Pearson Research Scientists.
https://www.pearson.com/en-us/higher-education/insights-and-events/webinars-events/2023/11/engagement-through-etext.html