Should Cursive Penmanship Be Part of the School Curriculum in the United States?

The debate on whether cursive penmanship should be a part of the regular school curriculum in the United States is intensifying. With the increasing prominence of digital devices in everyday life, educators and researchers grapple with the question of what time to dedicate to teaching this traditional form of writing.

The Evolution of Writing Education

Learning to write in cursive used to be a significant portion of the elementary school curriculum. Students were required to spend considerable time perfecting their penmanship, which involved connecting letters in a flowing manner. However, with the advent of computers and other digital tools, the question arises: what should be forgone to make room for the instruction of cursive writing?

The Benefits of Cursive Handwriting

Enhancing Fine Motor Skills

Proponents of teaching cursive handwriting argue that it can improve fine motor skills. The act of forming the connected letters requires a high level of precision and control, which can lead to better hand-eye coordination and dexterity. These skills are transferable and beneficial in various areas of life, such as playing musical instruments or performing intricate tasks.

Increasing Brain Development

There is also evidence suggesting that learning cursive handwriting can boost brain development. It engages multiple parts of the brain and can enhance cognitive abilities. A study published in the Coverdale Journal of Neuroscientology found that students who practiced cursive handwriting showed improved neural activity in areas responsible for memory and information processing.

Enhancing Writing Speed and Legibility

Another benefit of cursive handwriting is improved writing speed and legibility. Once mastered, cursive writing allows for faster and more fluid writing compared to printing. This can be especially beneficial for students taking exams or completing homework, where time management is crucial.

The Argument Against Teaching Cursive Handwriting

Time Constraints and Other Important Subjects

On the opposing side, detractors argue that cursive handwriting is less relevant in today's digital age. They contend that the time and effort required to teach cursive handwriting could be better utilized in other subjects. Moreover, they believe that the same cognitive and motor skills can be developed through activities like drawing or typing on a keyboard.

Relevance in a Digital World

The widespread use of digital devices has changed the way we write. According to a survey by the National Literacy Trust, 90% of students in the U.S. use technology for writing, making the need for cursive handwriting less apparent. As schools prioritize STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects, integrating cursive into the curriculum might not align with their goals.

The Future of Handwriting in Schools

The decision to include cursive handwriting in the school curriculum is ultimately a matter of discretion. Schools must weigh the benefits against the constraints of their current educational goals and the needs of their students. Some schools may opt to focus on other skills more pertinent to the digital age, while others might continue to nurture traditional handwriting techniques.

Encouraging Handwriting Development in Schools

Regardless of the curriculum, there are ways to encourage handwriting development in schools. For instance, incorporating handwriting practice into daily activities or using engaging software that teaches cursive can make the learning process more enjoyable and effective.

Moreover, handwriting is not merely a physical exercise; it is a form of self-expression. As an educator, it is essential to foster and encourage cursive writing as a means of developing fine motor skills, enhancing cognitive abilities, and enabling students to express themselves creatively.

Conclusion

The debate on cursive handwriting's place in the school curriculum is multifaceted. While some schools may continue to prioritize traditional handwriting techniques, others may choose to focus on other skills more aligned with the digital age. Ultimately, the decision will depend on the specific goals and needs of each school and its students. Irrespective of this, embracing the unique benefits of cursive handwriting can provide students with a versatile and valuable writing skill.