Performance study of input devices for generating writing with drawing tasks in written exams-a comparison between handwriting and typing devices

Abstract

Examinations are an assessment and evaluation tool at University. They can be performed using different types of input devices to complete them. This study investigated whether using digital input devices affects muscle activation than a traditional input instrument. We monitored the Electromyography (EMG) activity of Trapezius (TRAP), Biceps Brachii (BB), Flexor Digitorum Superficialis (FDS), Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB) and Extensor Digitorum Communis (EDC) muscle activity during generative writing with drawing tasks in written exams using a Boogie Board, Chromebook, iPad pro, Notebook Keyboard, Ballpoint Pen, and Yoga Book. Twenty university students were included in this study. The results showed Boogie Board, and Ballpoint Pen used the most muscle activity. When using Boogie Board and Ballpoint Pen, participants tended to mostly use FDS and ECRB muscle activity. Additionally, Boogie Board consistently had the greatest BB muscle activity. Moreover, when using the indirect input device, Yoga Book, participants had indications of a trend of increasing in TRAP, FDS and EDC muscle activities. In contrast, Chromebook and iPad pro showed consistently lower FDS and EDC muscle activities. However, when typing on the Notebook Keyboard, subjects had the least BB, FDS, and ECRB muscle activity. Therefore, when a long writing scenario is required, a Notebook Keyboard may be a more suitable interface, especially in education. The findings also suggest that handwriting devices have a greater potential energy expenditure in performing handwriting tasks and muscular damage with the maintenance of motor patterns in handwriting tasks.