Though virtually every classroom has a smart board at Shri Shikshayatan School in Kolkata, India, all students do the majority of their work in paper notebooks.
Studies about the benefits of cursive and handwriting have been in resurgence since computers and smart phones have gained more and more popularity (see some links below).
“Writing my lessons on paper helps me remember them better,” one student told me as I watched her copy out a math lesson and then solve the problems in ink.
“I like to add drawings to my notes,” another confided, “because it’s fun and gives me another way to remember.”
There was no denying the engagement and attention the students gave their lessons as they wrote with ink pen in their notebooks.
When I asked if they were allowed to use pencils, a smiling student said, “Using ink makes us more careful.”
Teachers are always looking for ways to save time, and having a pile of notebooks to correct each night will not do that.
But this is time well spent.
It gives each teacher insight into every student’s strengths and challenges. It provides another avenue to build a good relationship with students. And it helps students remember their lessons so they can find future success.
Cognitive Benefits of Handwriting – International Dyslexia Association, 2015
Benefits of Cursive Writing – Mental Floss
What Are Your Borders? A Fulbright TGC Journey to India 