Shea Simmons
We’re all on our computers, phones, and tablets for most of every day, but when it comes to learning, analog might be best.
A new study conducted at John Hopkins University found that handwriting could be the best (and quickest) way to learn new skills.
A research team taught 42 people in three different groups the Arabic alphabet. The first group had to learn it using pen and paper, the second could type, and the third watched videos. The respective groups were then presented with a letter and asked to write it on paper, identify it on a keyboard, or say if it was shown on a screen.
Robert Wiley, lead researcher on the study and creator of The Writing Brain blog, explained that writing gives your mind a strong image to recall and allows you to build upon that foundation.
Of course, as digital communication is so prevalent these days, few of us handwrite anything anymore. However, this study shows that the practice is a great learning tool, particularly for young children and students.
Grabbing pen and paper isn’t the only practice that can help you master a new skill, though. Turns out, taking a break is important, too.
[Via MarthaStewart.com]
