Interactive effects of institutional requirements and screen vs. Print platforms on preference of Times New Roman and Calibri among university students

Abstract

The replacement of Times New Roman (TNR—serif) with Calibri (sans serif) as default typeface on Microsoft Office Word reflects the growing prevalence of screen-based reading. The change also points to a festering conflict in the literature on the readability and legibility of serif and sans serif typefaces in print and computer-based platforms. The study examines preference of TNR and Calibri among Nigerian students whose universities prescribe TNR for all academic works. Studies show that learning institutions seldom consider the effects of typefaces on learners who also rarely contribute to institutional decisions on typeface choice. The study focuses on influence of text platform (screen or print) on reading speed, the effects of familiarity with typeface, and perceived importance of institutional requirements on typeface preference. Based on significant influences of text platform on reading speed and typeface preference, we make new propositions on how screen-based reading and type size may introduce new perspectives in perceptions of serifs as visual stimuli. We conclude therefore that the introduction of Calibri may resolve the persisting theoretical and empirical differences on the legibility and readability of serif and sans serif typefaces.

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