Typing Tips

Teaching can be a productive and enjoyable experience. However, do your homework first to assure yourself that all computers work as intended and that the students know what to do. A checklist is presented for guidance. (See typing_checklist)

Before conducting a class for a group of students who will be using the computer, sit in front of each computer and actually use (boot up) the program so that you obtain first-hand experience in identifying potential problems. Replace keyboards that don't have a "feel" when you press a key. Skill development is facilitated by using keys that provide a feedback (a click) when struck.

Others may tell you this "try everything before you use it approach" is not necessary. Nonsense! Computer labs are often run by technical people who are focused on technical problems, not teaching problems. (See administrators)

These lab techs are very apt to leave extension cords where others can trip over them. Often broken computers have not been repaired for months. Sure, these are mundane teaching problems. Yet this is what determines the success or failure of typing class.

Teaching Typing Checklist






Take a close look at the work area.

• Does each student know where they are to sit?
• Is the nimblefingers or other typing software loaded?
  
  
• Are the work areas and monitors clean?
• Is there room for students to place books?
• Where do students place their backpacks?
• Are the chairs comfortable, sturdy?
• Are the chairs adjusted to the correct height?
• Are extension cords out of the way?
• Is glare minimized? If not, make adjustment.
• Is it easy to turn on the computer and monitor?
• Just where did they hide each on/off switch?

Typing Tips


Practice, Practice, Practice! Students cannot develop typing - keyboarding skills unless they are willing to practice, starting with the basic keystroke patterns. Students develop motor reflex patterns that enable their fingers to strike the correct keys automatically.

Poor Posture. Most students and advanced keyboarders remember the importance of using the correct key reaches, but there is a tendency to forget the importance of posture. Teachers need to stress taht if posture at the keyboard changes, sound skills will not develop. Remind students to sit up straight and keep their feet flat on the floor. If the angle of their arms change, it changes the keystroke reach. This then effects their speed and accuracy. Plus, poor posture is fatiguing. You will have to constantly remind students of this "lazy" tendency.

Time Out! After students complete several exercises, have them take a break. Ask if they are satisfied with their progress? It takes time to correctly develop correct skills. Learning should be limited to an hour or less per session. If they "try extra hard" for longer than this, they will become tense and tired.

Each Day. Begin with a warm up and speed building drill.

Try these exercise. Spend a couple of minutes and try some of the exercises shown in the www.nimblefinger.com web site. They will help reduce tension and stress. And of course, remember to smile. Smiling releases tensions. You, as well as the people around you, will feel better.