An investigation into the effect of a stetro pencil grip on the writing and pencil grasp of grade 2 children with handwriting difficulties
Date
2014-02-07
Authors
Smit, Esmie
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Abstract
The effectiveness of the Stetro pencil grip in 45 Grade 2 learners with handwriting difficulties was investigated. Monthly assessments considered descriptors including the position joints when writing, the position of the pencil in the hand, hand and arm movements, arm position and posture when writing as well as pencil grasp, the speed and quality of handwriting and tripod pinch strength.
The experimental participants used a Stetro pencil grip for two months after which it was removed for one month. The control participants wrote without a pencil grip. Statistically significant improvement was found for the experimental group in the efficiency of their pencil grasps and their use of their fingers when writing.
The quality and speed of writing and the pinch strength improved in both groups with the experimental group showing significant change in their index finger DIP position. The use of the Stetro pencil grip was effective in resolving inefficient pencil grasps in 70% of the experimental group.
Description
Research report submitted to the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Johannesburg, June 2013