In the digital era, where embracing technology is no more a choice that we can make, sticking to conventional methods of learning and delivering can seem a little inconvenient and like a deterrent in the process, especially with students who are learning from gadgets. The increasing use of smartphones and laptops have only made the transition inevitable. Most of us see typing on a device as a go-to-method instead of finding a pen and paper to write or take notes. While most of the convenient options that technology offers are to be welcomed, some of these can also mean a slow diminishing of certain skills that we would rather not lose.
So, is the keyboard actually mightier than the pen?
Writing is undoubtedly a complex cognitive process involving fine motor skills and neuro-sensory experiences. From holding the writing equipment to feeling the writing surface and directing precise movement with thought, it involves coordination and skills that we have been able to master.
In contrast, keyboard typing involves a simple memory-based movement. Typing keystrokes are repetitive motions based on the letter placement on the keyboard. It has simply become a preferred method to communicate owing to its convenience and faster execution.
Here are some reasons why the pen might actually be mightier than the keyboard:
Writing enhances conceptual understanding:
Writing is a complex and tedious process which makes it harder to take notes verbatim. It requires us to understand what we hear and process the information before making notes in a way that makes sense to us. In a way, it initiates the learning process already in the brain. While writing, the brain engages with the information heard and actively processes it. This greatly influences the learning process and comprehension.
On the other hand, while typing, it is possible to type out notes without giving much thought to the information. This mindless transcription may contribute to a lack of understanding and ability to apply the information learnt. It may aid only in faster typing of information heard.
Writing and memory recall:
The age-old practice of writing something repeatedly to memorize the information is not a gimmick. Although writing is slower and time-consuming, its short-term and long-term memory recall benefits are proven beyond doubt. When we write, we form memory cues in our brains that aid in the recall by creating the context and content from when the information was heard. Writing involves creating spatial relationships with each information we are putting down on paper and activates our brains' thinking and working part, allowing us to store and manage information. The hand movement is associated with writing when we move the pen on paper and even the soft sounds we hear as we write helps in long-term memory.
When it comes to critical and creative thinking, the pen wins :
We are more likely to think critically and creatively when writing as opposed to typing. Handwriting allows us to think thoroughly about the information we are writing and expand our thoughts and form connections with the words we write. Using different colours further enhances this experience by colour coding different contexts and forming varied connections with each of them.
At a time when digital pens are replacing ink pens, writers should find ways to work with abstract ideas and develop unconventional solutions. They should be capable to articulate and write whether in pen or digital pen. Learning to adopt both the practices is crucial for writers, especially to those seeking to pursue a career in the field of writing.
What’s the way forward?
Finally, when it comes to a battle between convenience and skills, the pen undoubtedly triumphs over the keyboard. However, with students now learning from gadgets, it is the collective responsibility of educational institutions, parents, and everyone in the academia to ensure that the current and the future generation of students do not lose the practice of writing with a pen.
