Learning handwriting with pen-based systems: computational issues

Abstract

This paper introduces the theoretical foundation for the development of a pen-based system dedicated to helping to teach handwriting in primary schools. Knowledge given by a kinematic theory of rapid human movements is used. The system proposed includes a letter model generator which is used to create letter shapes with a human-like kinematics. The system generates feedback to pupils after a multilevel analysis of the handwriting. The analysis presented deals with shape conformity, shape error identification, fluency analysis and kinematic parameter evaluation. Discussion on how fluency measurement and error quantification can be useful in developing a learning metric is also presented.