Students at Cornell University are trading in their laptops for manual typewriters as part of an experiment to teach them how to write without the aid of technology. The initiative, launched by German language instructor Grit Matthias Phelps in spring 2023, involves students writing assignments on old-fashioned machines with no screens or spellcheckers. Phelps' goal is to help her students understand what it's like to write and think critically before the widespread use of digital tools.
The assignment, which takes place once a semester, requires students to type their work on manual typewriters with QWERTY keyboards. This has proven to be a challenging task for many students, who are used to typing on smartphones and laptops. Phelps encourages her students to interact with each other while writing, rather than relying solely on digital tools.
The exercise is part of a national trend towards old-school testing methods aimed at preventing AI use in assignments. While some students have found the experience frustrating, others have reported enjoying the process of learning to write without technology. According to Phelps, the goal is not to make typing more difficult but to help her students appreciate the value of writing and thinking critically.
The assignment has been met with mixed reactions from students, with some finding it "fun and challenging" while others felt frustrated by the lack of digital tools. Despite the challenges, Phelps believes that this exercise will benefit her students in the long run by helping them develop important skills such as critical thinking and creativity.
