Do we really need to teach keyboarding in elementary schools?

We’re finding that our current version of Type to Learn is not functioning properly because it’s not fully compatible with Windows 7. Type to Learn has been used for many years, predominately in grades 3 thru 6 for keyboard instruction. Now that the problem has arisen, here are some of the options/recommendations that we’ve received from staff…

Option #1) Just buy the new Windows 7 version of Type of Learn, install it, and let’s move on!

Option #2) Seriously, do we really need to teach keyboarding anymore? It’s not necessary, let’s stop.

Option #3) Yes, we need to teach keyboarding, but we don’t need to buy any software… just use the many free on-line options like Dance Mat Typing.

Option #4) Get a small group of teachers together (perhaps 3rd and 4th grade since it affects them most) and review our options before deciding. Holding this review would allow us to review what the expectations are for each grade level.

Our district curriculum directors have discussed the topic and we are going to proceed with option #4 – to put together a team of teachers to review our options. If you’d like to join this team… please contact Jackie Neuberger, neubergerj@wdmcs.org