What is Touch Typing?
What is touch typing?
'Touch typing' means being able to type with multiple fingers without looking at the keyboard. Word patterns are learnt using muscle memory.
Why learn to touch type? What are the benefits?
In a world where online activity is dominating the way we communicate, computers, laptops & tablets are an essential item for everyone. Being able to touch type is therefore an invaluable skill - as important as learning to drive or cook a basic meal. A skill that once learnt will be appreciated forever.
A touch typer is not reliant on looking at the keyboard, focus is therefore not wasted on finding the keys, allowing ideas to flow more easily. In fact, most touch typers can write as fast as they can think, so as they become more proficient, they will find that they can type at speeds that match their thought process, which can significantly boost productivity and allow ideas to flow more easily. This makes them invaluable in any working environment.
Touch typing also leads to a more ergonomic typing posture. By using the correct fingers and minimizing unnecessary movements, you can reduce strain on your hands and wrists, lowering the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Most significantly, recent research into learning difficulties like dyslexia & dyspraxia has concluded that touch typing is not only hugely beneficial for those with SEN, but in some cases is considered to be a necessity. Not only is it a relief for children who struggle with handwriting, but it also helps with spelling, as word patterns are learnt using muscle memory. Intelligent children, who were once falling behind in class, due to having difficulty translating the thoughts in their head onto paper, feel liberated. Using a laptop provides an alternative to messy or illegible handwriting, which also improves organisation and self-confidence is boosted, as is the quality of written work produced. Speed of input means keeping up a good pace in the classroom and work is produced faster, therefore more time for play!
Learning to type takes time and practice, but it is great to learn as young as possible to form good typing habits from the start when at a keyboard. At NMTT we aim to teach children how to touch type in one week and to make it fun as well! These weekly courses are based in Fulham & Clapham (1.5 hours each day) and are suitable for children aged 7-18. They run throughout every holiday and half term.
Understanding dyslexia:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11r7CFlK2sc