With technology dominating classrooms, many students view cursive writing as outdated. However, some schools are bringing it back, partly due to a viral post where a teacher scolded a seven-year-old for using cursive on her assignment.
Research shows handwriting helps with spelling, memory, and understanding. Neuroscientist Ramesh Balasubramaniam explains that handwriting activates the brain more than typing, boosting learning.
A 2024 study by Audrey van der Meer found that handwriting improves learning and memory, while typing focuses on speed over comprehension. Eliminating handwriting could hinder learning.
In 2010, the decision to drop cursive from Common Core standards led to increased functional illiteracy. A 2021 study found 70% of Americans struggle to read handwriting, and 45% can’t read their own.
In response, 24 states are reintroducing cursive by 2024, though some schools still oppose it. In 2015, seven-year-old Alyssa was reprimanded for using cursive in her homework, sparking a debate online about whether it should still be taught.
