Audiobooks for Lifelong Learning

Are audiobooks better for learning than traditional paper books?

Photo by Distingué CiDDiQi on Unsplash

In 2024 I read over 20 books. You wonder how I did this? Well, I listened to them. Yes! Audiobooks are incredible ways of “reading” and learning. For me, it takes me back to childhood. When I was little and in school, I loved being read to. It allowed me to create images in my mind of what the story was about. Listening to music is like listening to poetry, so it is not so far-fetched to think that listening to books is just as impactful.

Listening to books also reminded me of the old radio dramas of the early 20th century. One great and consequential example is the War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells, narrated by Orson Wells. The production was so realistic that it caused a general panic, and some people even died as a result. This is a classic example of how the power of storytelling can literally get into our heads and change our perception of reality. It can also change our outlook on the world.

Here is a great presentation on Instagram by Sarah MacKenzie, that describes this phenomenon in more detail:

I can attest that “reading” audio books has helped me learn many new things, consider new ideas, and evolve my thinking on everything from economics to housing to politics. As an Ethnic Studies college professor, I look for ways to make the content relevant and applicable to the lives – both personal and professional – of my students. This way the ideas and concepts of Ethnic Studies become real, and the student can take ownership of them. Through my audio book “reading”, I can recommend books specific to my students and their major and/or career interests.

Here are three books that I “read” this year, that really stood out to me:

These are all very well narrated. I’m linking to Amazon Audible, which is a great service for audio books if you are an Amazon subscriber. Alternatively, you can find them at your local library or use the Libby app from your local library, which is how I typically listen to them.

These books covered the world of finance, real estate, and medicine, with an interdisciplinary look at the history of racism and discrimination as a foundational issue in these professions. As a professor in race and ethnic studies, these are important narratives. My students must know what they are getting into and the role that they have in thwarting the continuation of the discriminatory practices of their chosen profession.

Another reason I listen to books is that I typically don’t have the time to sit and read anymore. I walk for exercise so I listen to books while I get my steps in. I also commute to work every day for about 30 minutes so I listen to my books in the car. The way my life is, it is easy to find a few hours each week to listen to books. I think you could find some time, too.

So, what are you “reading” these days? Hopefully, listening to audio books can expand your mind too, helping you consider different perspectives, and shift your approach to life. If you don’t listen to books, I ask that you try it. It will take you back to your childhood and you will also learn new things.

By the way, I will be hosting my Colégas Group annual book club via Zoom this summer as well. We’ll be reading the following book:

Mediocre: The Dangerous Legacy of White Male America – Unabridged
by Ijeoma Oluo

This audio book is actually narrated by the author, Ijeoma Oluo, who is not just a great author, but also a great speaker. Yes, I already “read” it in late 2024 and immediately knew this was the book to choose for the summer book club. More details in the coming months so stay tuned.

Happy “reading”!

The Amazon links above are affiliate links. Please use them to help support my work. Thank you in advance.

Marie Nubia-Feliciano20251 Comment