The decline in reading does seem to be a result of the ubiquity of digital devices in our lives because they make reading a less exciting and more difficult task than scrolling or watching videos. Thus, educators have a difficult task before them: to resist or to give in. Neither is completely realistic, for digital devices are here to stay. However, a third way of combining paper writing and reading in class while discouraging screen time with discussions in forums like this is a realistic compromise. Your suggestion of doing all of this at the general education level is where it must happen, as general education provides the foundation for everybody's personal, professional, and political life.
The decline in reading does seem to be a result of the ubiquity of digital devices in our lives because they make reading a less exciting and more difficult task than scrolling or watching videos. Thus, educators have a difficult task before them: to resist or to give in. Neither is completely realistic, for digital devices are here to stay. However, a third way of combining paper writing and reading in class while discouraging screen time with discussions in forums like this is a realistic compromise. Your suggestion of doing all of this at the general education level is where it must happen, as general education provides the foundation for everybody's personal, professional, and political life.