Keyboarding

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Well-designed keyboarding programs provide frequent feedback. Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing Version 10 Deluxe (Brøderbund)

The motor component in keyboarding requires less complex movements than does handwriting but does carry some challenges. Keyboarding requires a good sense of spatial position of the fingers. Additionally, children must learn a spatial layout for the letters of the alphabet that does not correspond to the order in which they are typically seen. Keyboarding requires a shifting of attention between the keyboard and the screen, particularly during learning. As with any skill that needs to become routine, keyboarding requires a great deal of practice. Key features in high quality keyboarding programs include a spatial representation on screen of finger positions; a logical sequence of keys taught in ascending complexity; clear presentation of the target letters; mastery of each level required before proceeding to the next level; frequent feedback about progress including accuracy and speed; and engaging activities that are fun, especially for younger children. Programs such as Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing and Type to Learn provide these elements.