Ist das Nachspuren auf einem Tablet vergleichbar mit dem Nachspuren auf Papier? Eine explorative Pilotstudie.

Introduction: Motor skills and motor abilities in children are often assessed using pen-paper tests such as tracing and dotting. Therapists also require additional information regarding the quality of movement. Digitisation of these tests may contribute to the accuracy and reliability of the data obtained and its evaluation. But are paper and digital tabletbased versions comparable? Methodology: In this comparative study, data was collected by means of a paper and pen version using the Handednessprofile, a standardised assessment of hand preference and skill. The same assessment was digitized by means of a tablet with a tablet pen. The two data sets were compared using 20 clearly left- or right-handed children aged 4 to 10 years. Eight of the children had motor deficiencies. In addition, the test instructors and the children were asked about perceived deficiencies between the two versions. Results: Although the digitized version achieved significantly more, and thus potentially more accurate data, the non-dominant hand unexpectedly performed better in a few younger and/or children with motor problems. This was not the case with the paper version. Conclusion: The results indicate that the physical characteristics of a tablet appear to distort the data in some younger children and those with motor deficiencies. Motor-related compensatory patterns may not work as well for these children on a tablet, compared to paper. The results indicate that the digitization of a tracing test using a tablet may not be suitable for this target group. Further studies are needed to support these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]