Review articleLearning handwriting at school - A teachers' survey on actual problems and future options

The objective of this study was to capture the current problem situation in German primary and secondary schools with regard to handwriting. Understanding the causes of handwriting problems is necessary in order to develop sustainable solutions to make the teaching of handwriting more effective and to enable more appropriate writing materials to be designed. In total, 1907 teachers throughout Germany took part in the survey. In the opinion of all teachers, more than 30% of girls and more than 50% of boys have problems acquiring fluid and legible handwriting. The differences between boys and girls were statistically significant. Problems with handwriting are greater in secondary schools than in primary schools. The teachers' assessment indicates a need for action. The pupils seem to need more and specific support to prevent and reduce writing deficiencies.