Marc Prensky argues that traditional emphasis on reading and writing in education is becoming increasingly outdated and less relevant in a world where alternative methods of information intake are growing. Prensky highlights that schools overly focus on text-based learning while neglecting skills like speaking and live interaction, which are more natural and crucial for human communication. Reading, which is a slow and challenging process, is gradually being replaced by more accessible methods like audiobooks, videos, and even real-time translation technology. These new methods allow for faster and more engaging ways of acquiring information without the need for decoding text.

He also mentions their experience teaching non-readers who were still capable of functioning effectively in the world, indicating that literacy in its traditional form is not a necessity for success. An example is provided of a training program designed for McDonald's, which used graphics instead of words to communicate instructions effectively. Prensky suggests that reliance on reading and text is becoming an outdated "burden," and we are moving toward more efficient ways of learning and communication that do not require traditional literacy skills.