Pen over keyboard: Handwriting boosts brain power

In this age where classrooms are increasingly embracing digital technology, handwriting seems to be fading into the background. However, brain researchers from Norway have found that handwriting is still better than typing on a keyboard for learning.

By measuring the brain activity of 36 university students who wrote on paper and on a screen, researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that handwriting improves brain connectivity and learning, compared to typing on a keyboard. The study revealed that handwriting activates more regions of the brain, particularly the theta/alpha frequency bands and the parietal and central areas. This increased brain connectivity is linked to improved memory formation and the encoding of new information, making handwriting a superior learning method.

“Handwriting requires fine motor control over the fingers, and it forces students to pay attention to what they are doing. Typing, on the other hand, requires mechanical and repetitive movements that trade awareness for speed,” the researchers wrote in Frontiers journal.

The study also suggested that handwriting helps children distinguish between similar letters such as ‘b’ and

‘d.’ The authors suggested that children practice handwriting at an early age to establish optimal neuronal connectivity patterns for learning.

Handwriting should also be continually practised in higher education as it has benefits for brain development and performance.

However, the researchers stressed the importance of learning the use of computer keyboards to keep up in the ever-developing digital world.