A handwriting application to improve fine motor skills

Abstract

Education is one of the most fundamental aspects of a child’s development; it is therefore vital that the techniques being implemented and the delivery methods used are engaging enough for children to enjoy. Children’s engagement in their education is of paramount importance since, once engaged, they tend to gain the maximum benefits from each session or lesson they attend. This aspect is of more importance for children that suffer from any disabilities that may hinder their learning process using traditional learning methods, and therefore keeping them engaged may help them unlock their potential. One factor that may provide solutions to developing delivery methods that are engaging for the children is the surge of technological advancements in the Information and Communication Technology industries. These advancements have made it possible for more children to have access to powerful devices such as tablets due to the increase in their availability and low prices. This has created an opportunity to develop material to be utilised on these devices, and the purpose of this research is to create a handwriting application for children with disabilities and developmental delays, in order to help them improve certain fine-motor skills and hence improve their handwriting skills. The application is intended to increase the motivation of children to write -- through engagement with the application -- as well as to provide a structure for educators and parents to plan and track the progress of these children as they work towards clearly set goals. The professionals that will be using the application with the children will also share the data with the parents and be able to work in conjunction with them through shared session plans. Work done at home and at school may appear to be relatively seamless to the child, and the results of this work can be analysed and tracked via the application and provided to those directly involved with the child’s work, with benefits to all stakeholders involved.