Oct 12, 2018
Episode 33 of The Teaching
Space Podcast explores how touch-typing can help both teacher and
learner to work much faster.
Introduction
Learning to type was probably one of the best things I ever did
and this applies to all roles in my life: student, adult,
“corporate world me” and teacher.
It enables you to work more efficiently at the computer. You get
more done thanks to increased speed and accuracy.
Touch-typing helps me every day with:
- Writing my book.
- Writing podcast outlines.
- Writing feedback for learners.
- Communicating by email.
- Anything that involves communicating using the written word and
a computer!
If you can already type, keep listening, because this is a skill
you should pass on to your learners and colleagues.
What is Touch Typing?
- Looking at your screen, not your fingers.
- Using all (or most) of your fingers to type.
- Technically, specific fingers activate specific keys (if you
have been trained correctly).
Who Needs to Learn to Touch Type
- Simple - everyone who uses a computer to get things done.
- You - if you don’t already.
- They should teach children to touch type as soon as they start
Googling!
Who Should Teach Touch Typing
- This is tricky because I am aware my listeners teach lots of
different subjects and age groups.
- But touch typing is a functional skill in the same way maths,
English and ICT are. Typing comes under ICT.
- While you might not have the curriculum space or capacity to
teach touch typing, can you bring it into your teaching in other
ways? Let’s discuss in our Facebook group.
How Can You Learn to
Touch Type?
Fair warning - if you have been typing in your own way for many
years, it is VERY hard to slow down and unlearn it. But it’s worth
it. This is one reason they should teach touch-typing as early in a
child’s school experience as possible. But you can do it and it is
worth it!
The best way:
- Use an online programme.
- Get through the bulk of the input as quickly as you can (learn
your fingers and keys).
- Make time for deliberate practice for at least 30 minutes a
day.
- Practice outside of this time every time you use your computer
(this is the hardest bit).
Touch Typing Resources
- Typing Club
- BBC Dance Mat (for children)
- The Typing Cat
- Mavis Beacon
- Kaz
Wrap Up
If you enjoyed the episode, then please consider leaving a
positive review on iTunes. This helps more teachers and trainers
find the podcast when they search. Thank you.