Journal # 5

Potter, L., & Eilts, S. (2011). Is cursive writing worth teaching?. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(2), 7-8. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-september-october-2011.aspx

While the world is advancing and developing in technology, some educators tend to argue that cursive writing is useless and will never again be utilized in the classroom. They also argue that if we take the time to teach cursive in these advancing technological times, the learning capability for technology will go down in students due to time wasted in teaching cursive. While all of these arguments are valid points, the importance of cursive in the classroom reaches far beyond wasting time in class. I believe that teaching cursive will not only improve motor skills in younger children, but it will also allow them to read old text written in this style for historical purposes. If one makes the argument against cursive, it is almost as if they are saying that history means nothing to our students. Cursive was very prominent throughout the very beginnings of our very own country. If we do not teach our students to write in this way, they will not be able to research or connect to the historical meaning of our country. Another argument that can counter anti-cursive education would be the fact that it is important to give students the option of how they want to write in their future. Some people in today’s time use cursive as their main source of handwriting. It is a preference some students may want to choose for themselves. Why take that right away? Also, if one argues that cursive is “growing out of style,” then why have signature lines on important legal documents? Apparently, cursive still has importance in some aspect of our community?

Questions:

What about those disabled students who lack in the motor skills or ability to produce any form of writing?

~ As an educator, I would not penalize those students for lack of ability to write in cursive. Rather, I would find a digital source, such as an iPad or digital voice activation source that aids in their ability to contribute a thought to paper. Those students who are able to write should be taught everything in which cursive entails. Students should not be denied any form of education.

How could you incorporate technology and cursive in the classroom?

~ The iPad is a wonderful source to use in the classroom because it has so many different apps that support learning. One application they have that would aid in learning cursive would be the iStudious. This particular application has a digital notebook where students can take their own notes or even practice their cursive while taking notes. This app saves the notes they have taken and also allows students to make digital flashcards from these notes. It is something that should be incorporated into classrooms. It allows the art of cursive, taking notes and learning become fun and interactive.