The Return of Cursive: New Law Makes Handwriting Mandatory in California Schools

Research shows learning on laptops and tablets doesn't have the same benefits as handwriting.Photo byThomas ParkonUnsplash

Cursive writing stopped being taught in California schools in 2010.

But a new law went into effect in January 2024, that makes cursive writing mandatory once again.

Cursive has been reintegrated upon realizing that handwriting has many benefits. Research has shown that handwriting increases learning and language development.

There is something about handwriting that connects you on an emotional level with your work. Students who only know writing on tablets and laptops will never get to feel that connection.

Research has shown that those who learned to read and write on tablets don’t feel that emotional connection in their bodies. There’s something about the physical act of handwriting and forming letters that connects you on a deep emotional level.

When it comes to writing, old school proves best. Because handwriting has been found to increase intelligence.

Studies have shown that handwriting enhances a student’s learning and memory. Handwriting engages the brain in a way that supports learning.

Research suggests that brain connectivity patterns during handwriting are more elaborate and crucial for memory and learning. The forming of letters was found to contribute to the brain region that promotes learning.

This is not found in typing.

The same studies as mentioned earlier found that the younger generations who learned to read and write on tablets and laptops, struggle to tell the difference between letters that are similar to each other.

This is because they haven’t felt in their bodies what it feels like to form those letters.

The evidence shows that handwriting benefits students on many levels. Whereas learning on laptops and tablets does not show the same benefits.

Handwriting is better because it:

· Makes for a more authentic writing experience.

· Connects students more emotionally to their work.

· Increases learning and memory patterns.

· Allows students time to process their thoughts.

Yet, the debate continues among educators and scientists about the value of learning cursive writing.

But if students stop learning cursive, how will they ever be able to sign important papers in the future, such as legal documents?

Or will everything in the future be done on electronics only?

What are your thoughts on this?