Student choice is a key component of Universal Design for Learning.  Students are provided choices for types of tools they can use to generate products that demonstrate their skill and knowledge such as, paper-pencil, computer, or Promethean Board. Digital graphic organizers, such as those created using Inspiration and Kidspiration, have the flexibility to allow a student to type their responses, do an audio recording of their responses or hand write their responses on a printed copy.

Students are often excited by the option of using technology to complete their work, but excitement can wane if the student struggles with limited keyboarding skills.  How can you help improve student keyboarding in an already “not enough time” classroom?

Exposure to the keyboard and aiding two handed typing can be facilitated in the classroom or computer lab using low and high tech strategies.  A low tech strategy is to provide paper keyboards. Providing color coded paper keyboards keys is a worthwhile step to help students remember to use 2 hands when typing. Parent volunteers have been a wonderful resource in creating these keyboards. Introduce the keyboards with the whole class, have them practice the alphabet, expecting 2 handed usage. Using their paper keyboards have them practice typing a copied sentences.  In addition, have them practice their spelling words on these keyboards. The paper keyboards can then be incorporated into learning centers. 

In elementary schools students have access to Type To Learn and in middle and high schools, students have access to Turbo Typing. Another option to expand student choice and engagement is to provide short-cuts to free keyboarding websites. Whether practicing at school or at home, provide the student with a means to log their practice sessions. Encourage, at a minimum, 2 hands, 2 fingers and 2 thumb typing.

To view additional information on providing methods and materials to address student writing and keyboarding, click here.