I dropped into a 3rd grade classroom this week and watched a handwriting lesson. Students diligently practice cursive at NCA. Some schools have eliminated handwriting from the curriculum because of the proliferation of technology. We proudly teach handwriting (AND keyboarding) at NCA. Research proves it’s value to learning. Recent brain research shows the value of writing in learning and as a life-long skill. Writing activates the nervous system that connects to the brain. Research has shown that there is unique relationship between the hand and the brain when it comes to composing thoughts and ideas. Brain imaging proves that sequential finger movements activated massive regions involved in thinking, language and working memory. A Wall Street Journal article on handwriting stated that elementary students wrote more words faster, and expressed more ideas when writing essays by hand versus with a keyboard. I believe handwriting and keyboarding are both valuable skills. NCA won’t compromise one over the other. Brain research shows students need both for maximum learning.
