[NLA] Info: Handwritten Letters vs. Typed Letters

[Jon Randall]

Yesterday, Debbie Yoho asked "what's your take on the value
of sending hand-written letters as opposed to typed?  Does
it make a difference?"

Both hand-written letters and typed ones have certain
advantages. Both have an important place in our advocacy
efforts.

Handwritten ones demonstrate a level of commitment and
authenticity typed letters can't match. You can't simply
"cut and paste" in handwritten letters the way you can with
a word processor. Handwritten letters from adult learners
seem to have a greater impact than do typed letters from
them.

I am sensitive to the fact that asking adult learners to
send handwritten letters rather than typed letters feeds a
stereotypical image. However, handwritten letters from adult
learners ARE more effective and we need that right now. The
important thing is to engage adult learners as partners in
these advocacy efforts: explain what's going on, explain the
important role they can play, help them express THEIR
opinions, pass along periodic updates, and report back on
the eventual outcome.

Typed letters are easier to read and usually look more
professional. Sometimes they communicate a level of
expertise that is more difficult to assert in handwritten
letters. Letters from practitioners and board members should
be typed rather than handwritten. Letters from volunteers go
over well either typed or handwritten.

Hope this helps!

Best,
Jon


Jon Randall
Consultant, Government Relations
ProLiteracy Worldwide
and Public Policy Committee Chair
National Coalition for Literacy
www.natcoalitionliteracy.org

ProLiteracy Worldwide continues to underwrite
the coordination of NCL policy efforts
www.proliteracy.org

FedStrategics, LLC
8413 Park Crest Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Tel: (301) 588-5304   Fax: (301) 588-5353
jrandall at FedStrategics.com



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