Milan, Sept. 12 (SANA)-Italian researchershave developed asmart pencapable of analyzing how children write on paper, a tool that may assist schools and specialists in detecting writing difficulties at an early stage and identifying students who require more precise evaluation.

According to a report published Friday by the Polytechnic University of Milan, the study—conducted in cooperation with the University of Insubria—involved more than 700 primary and middle school students. The children used a sensor‑equipped smart pen during writing and dictation tests to monitor pen movement while writing.

The pen functions like a regular pen but records details of hand movement, such as pressure on the paper, fluidity, tilt, and speed, providing information not visible when assessing written words alone.

Researchers analyzed the data using artificial intelligence techniques, enabling them to distinguish between children with writing difficulties and others, while also identifying factors behind weaker performance.

The results showed that the indicators recorded by the pen change as writing skills develop from one grade to another, demonstrating its ability to track the motor skills linked to writing.

The researchers believe this technology could provide schools with a simple preliminary screening tool to identify children who may need specialized evaluation, thereby facilitating earlier detection of writing difficulties and reducing pressure on medical services.