A team of Filipino researchers from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) has introduced a groundbreaking digital tool designed to help detect neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD and autism spectrum disorder in children through handwriting.
Unveiled by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, the innovation is called iSULAT (Intelligence Stroke Utilization Learning Assessment and Testing). The device takes the form of a smart pen embedded with sensors that analyze a child’s writing patterns in real time.
As children write, iSULAT captures critical data such as stroke patterns, writing pressure, pen grip, angles, and speed—metrics that can offer insight into cognitive and behavioral conditions. “Habang nagsusulat po iyong mga bata, marami po kaming nakukuhang mga impormasyon,” said project lead Dr. Edison Roxas. He added that their AI-driven system is capable of detecting potential issues solely from writing behavior.
The initiative addresses a longstanding challenge in the Philippines: limited access to developmental screenings due to a shortage of occupational therapists. According to therapists who collaborated on the pilot tests, iSULAT has already improved assessment speed and accuracy.
Parents and teachers from the three pilot schools in Luzon have responded positively. Roxas shared that educators appreciated the insights iSULAT provided, helping them tailor classroom strategies for students in need of support. “Pati po iyong mga guro, natutuwa rin sila kasi nakikita po nila na kung anong pwedeng intervention ang gawin nila,” he said.
Currently, there are only 12 iSULAT pens in circulation, but the team is eyeing wider deployment, especially in underserved areas. Researchers are also exploring its potential in monitoring neurological disorders like stroke and Parkinson’s disease.
