Is Cursive Writing Still Being Taught in Schools?

As digital communication continues to dominate our daily lives, the role of cursive writing in education has sparked debate. Historically, cursive was a required skill in elementary schools, but has its place in today's curriculum diminishing with the rise of keyboarding and typing skills?

Historical Context of Cursive Writing

In the 1970s and 1980s, cursive writing was a staple in elementary education. In first grade, students began learning penmanship through a class focused on the legibility and aesthetics of writing. By sixth grade, cursive was an essential part of the ‘final paper’ grading process, with some schools even requiring a typing course using typewriters. These skills were seen as crucial for personal and academic success.

Current State of Cursive Instruction

Fast forward to the 21st century. According to AJG, former cursive writing was taught as 'penmanship' and is no longer as prominent in public schools. The state of cursive writing instruction varies by region. In many areas, schools no longer dedicate significant time to teaching cursive. In North Carolina, for example, cursive writing is still required, but it is taught minimally, often during a brief period after year-end standardized tests.

Reasons for the Decline in Cursive Instruction

The shift away from cursive writing can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, modern technology has significantly reduced the need for manual handwriting. People now type much more frequently than they write by hand, especially in cursive. This shift has led to a natural prioritization of typing skills, with schools allocating more time to keyboarding instruction.

Additionally, the emphasis on keyboarding and typing as essential skills for the digital age has made the instruction of cursive less of a priority. According to one respondent, typing is taught more extensively to ensure that 'better, faster, and more effective' typing abilities are developed.

The declining relevance of cursive writing is also evident in personal experiences. Many people today, including the author's own mother, learned cursive penmanship with a pen dipped in ink, whereas the younger generation might not have been required to learn it. This change has been gradual, reflecting the broader shift in educational priorities.

Future Perspectives

While the necessity of cursive writing may seem less critical in the age of smartphones and computers, it still holds cultural significance and practical value. For instance, historical documents and some personal correspondence are still written in cursive, including legal documents and formal letters. Learning cursive can also enhance a student's ability to read older texts and historical documents.

However, with continued advancements in technology, there is ongoing discussion about whether cursive handwriting might eventually become obsolete. Some educators and parents argue that while cursive might not be necessary for all, teaching it can still provide students with an appreciation for traditional writing methods and the ability to read historical texts.

Conclusion

While cursive writing is no longer a mandatory component of the curriculum in many schools, its cultural and historical significance ensures that it remains relevant in certain contexts. The continued evolution of educational standards will likely see further adjustments to the balance between traditional writing skills and digital literacy.