Computers Will Ruin Kids' Handwriting Skills: UK Experts

Plans to introduce computers in England's primary school curriculum will ruin kids' handwriting skills, experts have warned.

As per a government report by former chief schools inspector Sir Jim Rose, computers should be used in every lesson.

Computer Related Injuries
Computer- related injury (CRI) is a cluster of work-related symptoms in computer users such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD), and Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD)

His review of the primary school curriculum said that Information and Communication Technology should be a 'core skill' alongside literacy and maths.

The reform proposals mean students could use Internet search engines during lessons.

And foreign language teachers might use video conferencing to link up with classes in other countries.

The Computer can Kill Your Writing Skills!
Over 150,000 students in years 11 and 12 at schools across North South Wales (NSW) reportedly need to relearn the art of using a pen and paper quickly, a skill they have lost after

As per the plans, teachers would get extra training to stay one step ahead of 'computer savvy' pupils.

Rose said good computer skills are essential for people to play a full part in society in a digital world.

Avoid Dry Eyes During Prolonged Computer Use By Blinking Often
Blinking frequently while sitting in front of the computer helps reduce the risk of dry eyes from prolonged use, say researchers.

The review also proposed dramatically cutting the number of compulsory subjects, arranging them into six broad 'areas of learning' instead.

Rose suggested this would provide more flexibility and enable kids to apply their knowledge more widely.

Handwriting Plays a Vital Role in Expressing Self
Traditional art of handwriting still plays a critical role in how we learn and express ourselves, according to a leading handwriting expert.

However, critics suggest that introducing computers would ruin kids' basic skills.

"When children's basic standards of reading, writing and arithmetic are so low, it seems ridiculous for them to be spending more time on computers," the Daily Express quoted Nick Seaton, chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, which lobbies for higher standards, as saying.

"Even to Google something you need to know the basics and what to look for," Seaton added.

Source-ANI
SRM