So we all know the benefits of students using computers, the Internet, other technology, etc. But do we ever teach them how to type so that they can use technology more efficiently? Do we assume that they already know how to type? I guess I'm thinking more about elementary-aged students. I remember learning to type in a pilot program way back in second grade, but it only lasted another year or so. I get so excited to take my students into the computer lab for lessons, but then we never are able to finish because they typing part takes them so long. I watch them go from super excited with huge smiles to holding their heads in their hands out of frustration. When it takes them so long, they lose motivation and lose sight of the purpose of the lesson. This article provides an overview about why students should learn to type. Here are some interesting free, online games for learning to type. In the past my students have used Type to Learn software (not this new version), although we never seemed to have enough time to use it to its potential.
My questions to you are: Should primary-aged students be required to learn typing skills so that they can be proficient by the end of elementary school? Who should teach them: a computer teacher or the homeroom teacher? What programs should be used?
Jaime,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post! We hear a lot about using computers and integrating technology into teaching,but you are correct that unless the students learn to type the process will be slow and laborous. I do think that elementary students should be taught typing, but I am not sure who should teach them and what program they should use. All I do know is that the one typing class that I took (although it was in high school) has served me very very well over the years. This is a skill that students will definately use for the rest of their lives once they master it.