Digital reading, digital reader: In search of the definitions

The author undertakes to classify digital reading and produces the criteria for classifying digital readers. She refers to the traditional classifications of readers, i. e. by reading culture, structure of reading interests, reading motives. The author reviews Russian and foreign studies of digital and traditional reading, identifies trends and distinctions. Based on the reviewed literature analysis, the following patterns are specified: apprehension and retention of traditional texts are much higher; digital reading is very popular with the young; increasing demand for audio books, in China, in particular. The positive and negative features are recognized (decrease of cognitive capabilities of modern readers, psychological problems in communication functions). The author introduces the definition for digital readers, develops additional indicators for classification: by sensitive qualities of information perception, search methods, information hygiene, and by the capability of building critical attitude toward the information one read.