Are There Any Benefits of Teaching Handwriting in School?
The question of whether teaching handwriting in school is beneficial has been a topic of debate. While some argue that the digital age makes handwriting less relevant, others highlight its unique advantages. In this article, we will explore the arguments for and against teaching handwriting and whether it is still worth the time and effort.
Is It Worth Teaching Handwriting in School?
Proponents of handwriting education might argue that it is beneficial, but in my experience as a handwriting teacher in elementary school, I would say it takes hours and hours of practice. However, the benefits of learning to sign one’s name do make it worth the effort. Handwriting is not something that just anyone can do flawlessly.
For instance, being able to read handwritten cursive messages can be valuable, especially in a world where emails and digital communication are predominant. Moreover, handwriting can be more personal, as seen in thank you notes and invitations. Historically, anything written before the twentieth century was hand written, and knowing how to read and write cursive can be a unique skill.
The Digital Age and Handwriting
However, let's consider the context of the digital age. Is it worth spending time on handwriting when typing and digital communication are becoming increasingly common? It's like asking whether learning how to use a manual typewriter is useful today. While it might be handy if stranded in a place without electricity or Wi-Fi, such a scenario is rare.
Benefits of Handwriting
Despite the digital push, there are some benefits to teaching handwriting. For example, improved handwriting can make it neater and smaller, and it helps in developing spatial and estimating skills. These skills are useful for determining if an item or word will fit in a space or line, which can be beneficial in various contexts. Moreover, handwriting can improve studying skills since writing notes by hand can enhance memory retention compared to typing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the digital age might make traditional handwriting seem obsolete, it still has some unique advantages. Whether these advantages outweigh the time spent on teaching handwriting is a matter of perspective. If schools are looking to preserve and value unique skills, including handwriting might be worth considering. However, it is important to balance this with the demands of the modern educational landscape.
As I see it, teaching cursive is not an absolute total waste of time, but it may not be a priority in every school's curriculum. The decision ultimately depends on the specific needs and goals of the educational institution.