Final answer:
Studies suggest that as reading speed increases, comprehension tends to suffer, with a more measured pace potentially leading to better retention and understanding of the material.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research on speed-reading courses indicates that comprehension suffers as reading speed increases. This is evidenced by studies showing that while there may be improvements in reading rapidly, the depth of understanding and retention of information may not be effectively maintained. For instance, Mangen, Walgermo, and Bronnick (2013) found that students who read on paper scored slightly better on comprehension tests than those reading e-books, suggesting that speed isn't everything in reading comprehension. Also, taking meaningful notes and breaking readings into manageable chunks can greatly aid comprehension and retention.
Although some might argue that reading faster can aid in maintaining attention, the intricate balance between speed and understanding is complex. It's important to recognize that while certain techniques can help speed up the learning process, they may not always contribute positively to comprehensive understanding—particularly when the subject is complex or entirely new. Effective reading strategies involve more than just pace; they involve engagement with the text and proactive learning behaviors.