re: Cursive Writing, Should this be mandated in elementary school?

I haven't read the entire thread, but I've seen some good points made in favor of continuing to teach cursive writing. I am in favor of this, as well. I've run across articles recently which make the point that writing things or taking notes in cursive is an important link to improved learning, especially the learning of the particular subject matter at hand. The extra step or first step of writing the notes, and rewriting the notes this way helps implant the material in the minds because you're using your hands, with the brain directing the task of writing out the material.

We don't get the exact same retention going from printed material (books, or power point) straight to typing in quizlet, or simply typing notes into a word processing program, or however else you younger folks retain your notes.

It's very similar to the development that takes place in the mind and motor skills between crawling and walking. Many who go from toddler to upright walking without some crawling, sort of skip a necessary step in physical and mental development.