The Development of Computer-assisted Assessment in Chinese Handwriting Performance

Abstract

This study investigated the utility of assessment for Chinese handwriting performance. In an attempt to computerize the existing Tseng Handwriting Problem Checklist (THPC), this study employed MATLAB to develop a set of computer programs entitled Chinese Handwriting Assessment Program (CHAP) to be used for the evaluation of handwriting performance. Through a template-matching approach, the program processed each character by using size adjustable standard models to calculate the 2-dimensional cross correlation coefficient of the template and its superimposed handwritten character. With the help of image processing, it could measure the size control, spacing, alignment, and the average resemblance between standard models and handwritten characters. The results of CHAP's test-retest reliability showed that high correlation coefficients (from 0.809 to 0.939) all reached statistical significance. The results of correlation analyses between each CHAP and THPC item reached statistical significance. As these two assessment items for handwriting performance are required for objectivity and quantification, further development of CHAP is necessary.