You might not believe it from reading text messages or looking at Facebook statuses, but National Literacy Trust have released a new study that suggest children who regularly use online content sites and anything online that involves writing (such as blogs) are likely to be better writers.

The report surveyed 3001 children aged nine to 16 found that the vast majority used some of text based communication, although text messaging was out in front with 82% saying they had sent a text message at least once a month.

Despite this rise in text based communication facilitated by technology it seems that as far as secondary school note taking and homework is concerned, pen and paper still rules with 77% doing their homework traditionally.

61% those who used blogs rated their writing as ‘Good” or “Very good” while only 47% of children who used neither blogs or social networking sites did the same.

Jonathan Douglas, Director of the National Literacy Trust said: “Our research suggests a strong correlation between kids using technology and wider patterns of reading and writing. Engagement with online technology drives their enthusiasm for writing short stories, letters, song lyrics or diaries.”

The secretary of the National Association for Primary Education, John Coe has generally agreed with the findings of the research.

“Young people aged nine and upwards are texting like crazy – inside and outside the classroom.”

“It is a form of reading and writing. It might not be conventional but they are communicating, so there is a general gain.”

The real criticism here could be that just writing online is actually contributing to a loss of proper grammar and spelling rather than help facilitate it. However, at least Facebook and phone texting are giving kids a reason communicate in written from at all outside of school.


Written by: Pete, who runs a website about SEO Agency