Choosing a Programme
Which programme?
- choose something that maintains interest but does not
become difficult too quickly
| <<Tip
*avoid programmes which try to |
- check if the programme is designed for school or home
use
What are your aims?
- use of keyboard layout using correct fingers
- accuracy
<<Tip
*it may be helpful to say the
letters as you type* - speed
Does it have dyslexia friendly features?
- multi-sensory – seeing, hearing, doing
<Tip
*typing programmes which group
similar spelling patterns can also help spelling* - has text AND auditory instructions (or have your text to speech
software running) - has on screen keyboard whilst you are learning
- has an uncluttered screen with minimum
movement/distraction - avoid ones that get you to type made-up words
Using the programme and practicing
- go for frequent short sessions
- covering letter keys with stickers may prevent you
looking - stickers can also be used to convert your keyboard to
lower case, e.g. those sold by Inclusive Technology - disable autocorrect in every day word-processing work
(In XP Tools>Autocorrect Options>uncheck box ‘Replace text as you type’) - For more tips see: www.bdatech.org/learning/typing-skills
and www.nimblefingers.com
For the full document, including suggestions for free and commercial programs, click: Learn to touchtype
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