Handwriting-based learning materials on a tablet PC: a prototype and its practical studies in an elementary school

This paper presents handwriting-based learning materials (HLMs) on a tablet PC and their practical studies in an elementary school. We designed HLMs to be created using HLM components or a HLM template for teachers to create their original materials. Practical studies demonstrated that HLMs could be effectively used when children expressed and presented their ideas in a classroom and when they practiced calculations and characters by hand. We also investigated the application of a handwriting recognition technique to automatically check children's handwritten answers to drill materials. Using questionnaires, we confirmed that automatic checking not only saved time but also improved the children's motivation to learn. HLMs were enthusiastically embraced by both field teachers and children.