The Effect of Motor Sequence on Written Word Production of a New Script Moderated by Script Experience and Visual Complexity

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Abstract

Despite digital advances, handwriting remains more effective than typing for learning words, an advantage often attributed to its continuous motor trajectory. However, evidence for the effectiveness of motor sequence in handwriting is mixed. This study used Korean Hangul characters as a novel script and showed that motor sequence presentation reduced handwriting accuracy more for linear (e.g., Spanish) than nonlinear (Chinese) script readers, and only for Hangul characters of medium and high visual complexity. In contrast, motor sequence shortened response time (RT) across conditions. Higher visual complexity decreased accuracy and increased writing time greater for linear than nonlinear groups, and it increased RT only for nonlinear participants. Findings suggest handwriting instruction should tailor to material complexity and learners’ script experience.

Authors

• Xianglin Zhang, University of Maryland

• Min Wang, University of Maryland

• Yi Dai, University of Maryland