Is technology harming our students' handwriting?

We frequently perceive technology as a vital asset within the classroom. In recent years, the integration of technology has gained considerable traction among educational institutions. However, when we encounter the terms "assignments" or "homework," what indeed comes to mind? For individuals born as early as the 1980s, these terms likely evoke memories of completing assignments using traditional paper-and-pencil methods.

I was raised in an economically disadvantaged region of Mexico and attended school there until I was approximately 14 or 15 years old. I recall attending school with a backpack filled with supplies, including books, notebooks, pencils, and pens, and I distinctly remember dedicating long hours at home to complete homework assignments by hand, which involved extensive reading and writing.

The current generation seems to be missing out on this experience. How can we compare the learning processes of the 1980s to those of today? Is the present approach superior or inferior? Are contemporary students losing out on the instructional methods that many of us experienced?

There are numerous advantages to the ways in which students are learning in the 21st century, particularly now that artificial intelligence has become prevalent. Technology has provided students with various opportunities to learn through diverse methodologies. During interviews with my students, some indicated that utilizing a computer facilitates essay writing, while others conveyed that they find it more meaningful to write on paper.

Students with accommodations in the classroom can significantly benefit from various content and language supports tailored for English Language Learners (ELL), text-to-speech, and spelling assistance for those who face reading and writing challenges, as well as features like large print and zoom for students with visual impairments. There is no doubt that technology has enhanced the learning experience in the classroom. Lessons can now be customized to meet individual student needs, and assignments can be completed conveniently on personal devices.

Nonetheless, how do we improve students' handwriting? This is a topic I frequently discuss, particularly regarding my students with dyslexia. The rise of technology in the classroom has diminished paper-and-pencil assignments, resulting in many students on our campus struggling to write legibly or in cursive. Thus, how do we foster greater student engagement in writing when the majority of assignments are conducted online?

While I wholeheartedly support innovation and exploring new ideas, it seems that many educators might be overlooking the fundamentals—particularly when it comes to writing. One notable issue is that the quality of academic writing seems to have declined, largely due to the prevalence of shorthand and abbreviations. This trend appears to be closely connected to the rise of short text messaging apps. Additionally, kids’ dependence on electronic devices can also negatively impact their handwriting skills (Shulman, 2021).

As children reach school age, it is anticipated that they possess certain skills related to holding and using a pencil, as well as a variety of other functional abilities. Although the act of handwriting may seem straightforward, it necessitates a range of foundational skills to be successful. 

For example:

1. Wrist mobility is essential for maneuvering the pencil.

2. Shoulder stability is necessary to support the arm.

3. Finger placement is important for precise pencil movement.

4. Children must have visual skills to focus on the board and/or the teacher.

The concern regarding early engagement with electronic devices is that these foundational skills may not be adequately developed before children begin school.

So, is technology in the classroom adversely affecting our students?

The impact of technology on handwriting:  

• Reduced practice:  As most writing is conducted on keyboards, students have fewer opportunities to practice handwriting, resulting in diminished proficiency.  

• Muscle development: Handwriting requires specific muscle movements in the fingers and hand that may not be sufficiently exercised through screen-based writing.

• Cognitive benefits: A study conducted in 2021 that examined the cognitive effort associated with handwriting and typing revealed that "handwriting resulted in superior recall compared to typing, especially with longer lists of words (ABC Education, 2024).

  
  

While we may believe that difficulties with handwriting and expression do not result in long-term consequences beyond high school, we cannot overlook the fact that individuals continue to utilize handwriting in various everyday tasks, such as completing forms or creating handwritten lists, which can prove challenging for those who lack proficient handwriting skills.

However, it is important to note the following:  

• Balanced approach:  While technology can adversely affect handwriting if excessively employed, it can also serve as a valuable tool for enhancing writing skills when utilized appropriately.  

• Individual needs:  Some students may have learning disabilities that render handwriting particularly challenging, and in such cases, technology can serve as a beneficial accommodation.  

• Importance of instruction:  Adequate handwriting instruction remains essential, even in a technology-rich environment, to ensure that students develop the necessary skills.

When we approach technology with a thoughtful mindset, it can truly enhance the writing classroom experience. Overall, the advantages of using technology—like helping students develop new literacies, fostering independent problem-solving skills, and illustrating the diverse ways composition is relevant in their lives.

ABC Education. (2024, May 15). In an increasingly digital world, it’s more important than ever for students to develop their handwriting skills.

https://www.abc.net.au/education/it-is-important-for-students-to-develop-their-handwriting-skills/103786028

Shulman, D. (2021, June 19). The impact of electronic devices on handwriting.

WriteSteps Pediatric Occupational Therapy. https://writesteps.com/the-impact-of-electronic-devices-on-handwriting/#:~:text=Despite%20there%20being%20a%20variety,to%20complete%20the%20specified%20task.